Jesus Only

But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only” (Matthew 17:7-8).

There are times when life overwhelms us. Maybe those times have spread from days into months or possibly years. We live in the shadows of our true selves, tending to hollow hearts and empty emotions. We are drained of the light that once shown and wonder if we will ever have the tiniest spark to go through the motions one more day.

This passage of Scripture tells us about Jesus’ transfiguration, His clothes becoming white as light and His face shining like the sun (Matthew 17:2). The grime of this world could not snuff out the Light. The transfiguration occurred when Jesus invited three disciples to join Him on a mountain. Throughout Scripture we see that Jesus found solitude with His Father. He sought moments to get away from the crowds, the busyness of life, and spend time solely in the presence of His Father. As He prayed, He communed with God the Father, finding restoration, clarity, and discipline.

The discipline of seeking time to be in the presence of our Heavenly Father, studying and memorizing His Word, speaking it over our lives, praying and remaining in constant communication with Him changes us. We don’t go through a transfiguration as Jesus did because we are sinful humans; however, our time with the Lord changes our perspective on life. “’Rise, and have no fear.’ And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only” (v. 7-8).

When life pulls us in all directions, when we live in the shadows of our true God-created selves, and we cannot fill the hollow spaces of our hearts, we need to remember this passage. When we lift our eyes to the Lord while sincerely surrendering the burdens we carry, we begin to realize that life is to be lived for Him. We learn to discern which things are producing good fruit in our lives and which things are distracting us from living for Him. It does not always happen overnight, but it will happen if we are disciplined to take everything to the Lord. When we focus on Him, we will see no one but Jesus only. Let's focus on Him together!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, our lives are filled with distractions that consume our thoughts and drain us of life – the life you want for us. Grant us Your discernment and wisdom to chase after the things that are of you and to lay all other burdens at Your feet. You are a good Father. Protect our hearts and minds from drifting away from who You created us to be. May we find solitude with you each day, focusing on You, your character, promises, and love for us so that we only see you, Jesus. Only you. Grant us your strength and endurance, peace and joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen