Jesus, Think on Me

“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.”—1 Timothy 4:12 NASB

Around the year 373 AD, a man named Synesius was born near the North African city of Cyrene. Called the “last great citizen” of this city, he was wealthy and traced his ancestry to the kings of Sparta in ancient Greece. After becoming a Christian, he rose to the position of bishop. Some may have disagreed with some of his opinions, but everyone recognized his outstanding character.

Sometime in the early fifth century, he wrote a hymn called “Lord Jesus, Think on Me.” In the translation provided by Allen Chatfield, we read how Synesius sought to live a pure life. He wrote, “Lord Jesus, think on me and purge away my sin.” His prayer was that Jesus would set him free from earthborn passions, so he might be pure within.

He prayed that Jesus would help him be His “loving servant” and taste His promised rest. He knew he was involved in a spiritual conflict. But he wanted Jesus to be his “health and life.” He prayed He would keep him from going astray and that “through darkness and perplexity” point him to the right way to live. Even while delighting in His presence, Synesius looked forward to seeing Jesus face to face.

Today, turn your heart toward Jesus. Seek His purity. Seek to be purged from any habits, thoughts, or relationships that pollute your heart and mind. Dedicate your life to serving Him.

Reflection Question: What habits and thoughts do you need to get rid of?