Fixed Gaze

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Hebrews 12:2

I admit without shame that I welcome distractions while running—anything to get my mind off the fact that the only thing pounding harder than my feet is my heart. Paying attention to fresh blooms in a nearby flower bed, concerned yelps from a neighbor’s dog, and friendly waves from passers-by are fine on days when I’m trotting around for fitness, but on the rare occasion I want to run fast, I must dismiss distractions and focus on the finish line.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” The trail of today is filled with much to see and do. Relationships and responsibilities call for our attention. Activities and amusements clamor for our affection. How can we prioritize properly and make sure we don’t miss our purpose? By fixing our eyes on Jesus. The faith in which we run has been fully laid out and lived out by Him. Jesus started our faith, and He saw it all the way through. He is “the author and the perfecter [completer] of our faith.” We’re not blazing a trail; we’re following the steps of a Savior who gave His all to get us on His team— “who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God(Heb. 12:2).”

Only as we focus on Jesus can we clearly see the world around us. All will fall into appropriate place when we dismiss distractions and look to Him. His grace, love, goodness, and compassion captivate us, compel us, and remind us that our eyes are not fixed merely on a prize but on a Person. He is the perfect winner who waits at the finish line to welcome us with open arms and who also, by His Spirit, finds us on the course, comes along beside us, and encourages us in our daily trek.

Your feet may grow weary from pounding and your heart may grow tired from pumping, but don’t look around for something to distract you. Look ahead for Someone to delight you.

Have eyes only for Jesus.