Matthew 6:22–23 Contemporary English Version
Your eyes are a window for your body. When they are good, you have all the light you need. But when your eyes are bad, everything is dark. If the light inside you is dark, you surely are in the dark.
You see a beautiful house on your phone, hear about a colleague’s success, and think about everything you still don’t have. Even after a busy day, you feel as though something is missing. Jesus asks a question that comes close to home: where are you directing your gaze?
Historical background
Jesus spoke these words during the Sermon on the Mount. Just before this, he had spoken about treasures on earth and in heaven. Immediately afterward, he spoke about the hold money can have on a person. So his picture of the eye is about more than sight: it is about what you desire and what guides your life.
Light in everyday life
Perhaps you know how comparing yourself with others can make you restless. You work hard to get ahead but fail to notice that your neighbor could use some company. It can happen at church, too. Everyone is busy making plans while someone staying behind after the service hopes to find a listening ear.
Jesus invites you to look in a new direction. Turn your attention to him and tell him honestly what is on your mind. Ask him for a heart with room for others. Perhaps that begins today with a conversation, groceries for a neighbor, or time with someone who feels alone.
Final thought
You don’t have to put your life in order first. Come to Jesus as you are. He invites you to follow him and discover what truly matters.
A prayer
Lord Jesus, I so often focus on what I lack. Help me turn my eyes to You. Give me peace, trust, and care for the people around me. Let Your light guide my way. Amen.