Especially when I used to use a 35mm camera, I loved to play with the aperture as it impacted the focal point of my pictures. At a smaller aperture setting I could focus in on a specific subject with what was before or beyond being slightly blurred. However, setting at a higher aperture I could focus on a particular subject while retaining a focus on all that was before and beyond, thus having a picture providing a full spectrum of the scene.
As we think about our aspirations, desires, or goals for life, what is central to that focus and how it relates to the fullness of life is important to consider. Therefore, what is it truly all about? What has become most significant to us? What marks our vision as we go about the day-to-day? Are we near-sighted, short-sighted, far-sighted, or sadly blind to the perspective we ought to maintain?
Someone has said, “It’s very short-sighted to spend the strength of your life on things you can’t keep.” (original source unknown)
On an occasion when Jesus was surrounded by people listening to Him teach, He was asked by one in the crowd to tell his brother to divide the inheritance with him. We would do well to remember Jesus’ initial response where we read. . .
“(14) But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” (15) And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”” (Luke 12:14-15 ESV)
What Jesus said was for all who were listening. And He went on to share the parable of the rich fool who was rich in a worldly sense, but not toward God. (Luke 12:16-21) That wealthy farmer’s attention was focused on the present with his future earthly life in view, but not beyond life in this realm. Are we making the same mistake? As empty-handed as we came into this world, so shall we leave this realm. (note 1 Timothy 6:7) Let us then not be so short-sighted or blind as to forget what we have been cleansed from (2 Peter 1:9) and what we are being ultimately led toward. (2 Peter 1:11) Focused on how we are presently living without blurring where we’ve been and the eternity God is leading us to, will duly impact what become the priorities for our life. May we keep the full spectrum within focus!
Have a great day VIEWING LIFE FRAMED IN GOD’S ETERNAL PLAN!
Carl
