LIFTING OUR EYES TO JESUS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 157

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 157:  "I implore you to lift your eyes to Me. Courage even if you  experience difficulties."

Our Adorable Jesus lovingly invites us to open our eyes to Him, since He is the only strength and hope in the trials of life. This invitation is consistent with the teaching of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which states that trust in God is more tested when made to face suffering (cf. CCC 2734). Only focus on Jesus, and the crushing weight of your burdens somehow disappears to give you the peace and courage that only He can offer. The psalmist has said it in the most beautiful way: "My help comes from The Lord, maker of heaven and earth." (cf. Psalm 121:1-2).

In moments of difficulty, courage grounded in God’s grace becomes essential. Jesus reassures us of His triumph over the world, urging us to take heart and share in His victory (cf. John 16:33). True courage is not the absence of fear but a profound trust in divine providence, even when challenges seem insurmountable. The Catechism teaches that God allows trials to draw forth greater goods, transforming them into opportunities for grace and holiness (cf. CCC 311). When entrusted to our Adorable Jesus, these difficulties lead us to a deeper union with Him.

Lifting our eyes to Jesus demands a life of faith nurtured through prayer and the sacraments. In prayer, we encounter our Adorable Jesus, who offers strength and consolation in our struggles. The Catechism highlights prayer as an essential aspect of the Christian life, warning that without it, we risk losing our way (cf. CCC 2744).Through the Eucharist, we are intimately united with our Adorable Jesus, who lovingly bears our burdens and strengthens us in every trial. Reconciliation, in turn, renews our souls by restoring us to God’s grace, granting us the fortitude to persevere faithfully on our journey (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:16; John 20:22-23).

Indeed, the Blessed Virgin Mary exemplifies a perfect trust in God that raises one’s eyes unto the Almighty. At the foot of the Cross, she witnessed a demonstration of the greatest love and courage: a mother’s heart held amidst deep sorrow (cf. John 19:25-27). Mimicking her example of faith and calling upon her power in our own weaknesses, we find the strength to withstand trial and become hope-carrying instruments of others. Hence, let us offer our hearts in faith to our Adorable Jesus, confident that He shall fulfill His promise to sustain us and draw good things out from every hardship. In Him, one finds the courage and peace needed to walk in faith towards the challenges of life.

Prayer

Oh our Adorable Jesus, we lift our eyes to You in trust and surrender. Grant us courage to face life’s trials with faith, knowing You are our strength and peace. Transform our struggles into grace, and lead us ever closer to Your loving heart. Jesus, we trust in You.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.