Seeing Jesus

In his autobiography, legendary trumpeter Louis Armstrong describes the time a guest minister visited his home church in New Orleans. Except for one woman, the congregation responded negatively. While everyone else frowned, that woman enjoyed the guest preacher the same as she did our pastor. After the service, people asked her why she had enjoyed the substitute.

When our pastor preaches, I can look right through him and see Jesus, she replied. When I hear a preacher who’s not as good, I just look over his shoulder and see Jesus just the same. Clearly, that woman’s eyes were not on the speakers but on her Savior.

It can be easy for us to focus on other people. To mentally critique their mannerisms or appearance. To be ready to judge them based on their words, waiting for a mistake or something we don’t agree with. But the Bible reminds us that we all are flawed and make mistakes, and that our eyes need to stay fixed on Jesus.

As Paul stressed, we should remember that we have this treasure in earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7). We all see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror (1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT). This is why we must focus on Jesus, who is perfect. And we must stand on God’s timeless Word.

Today, look to Jesus for all you need. Others might fall short or make mistakes, but He never will fail. No matter what others say or do, you can depend on Him. He is faithful. Trust in Him!