Eyes Wide Open: 40-Day Lenten Devotional Sample

It’s Not What You See but Who You See

“My power is made perfect in your weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Since moving to a new city, I have often felt unseen and struggled with loneliness. It’s been difficult to take my eyes off myself when my heart and mind are filled with clouds of depression. In Jesus’ presence, he breaks through and gives me eyes to see the hurting people around me.  

Second Corinthians 12:9 says, “My power is made perfect in your weakness.” This side of heaven we will always experience pain. Jesus’ example shows us that the power of salvation is available in and through us no matter what we are going through if we have eyes to see. Jesus could have been consumed by agonizing pain as he hung on the cross between two criminals. 

In the horror of his impending death, Jesus remembered his God-given purpose: to help others enter into a relationship with his Father. Instead of being blinded by affliction, Jesus saw two men loved by God and worthy of being seen. 

Recently, I’ve invited the Holy Spirit to help me pray for people around me who are suffering and need a friend and a savior. Images come to mind of the immigrant family struggling to find connection, kids who feel unseen at home and at school, the newly divorced woman trying to rebuild her life after betrayal. 

The Spirit turns my eyes from my own pain and reminds me that Jesus’ love is available to everyone I encounter. He shows me that my pain can be a connection point with other hurting people if I have eyes to see and a heart open to extending the love of Jesus. 

Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are present in pain. Holy Spirit, turn my eyes to see others around me who are hurting. Fill me with your power to offer the hope of Jesus to friends and neighbors who are far from you. Amen.

- Written by Jessica Leep Fick