Keep Your Eyes Fixed

Readings for Tuesday February 1, 2011

First Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22
Gospel: Mark 5:21-43


Brothers and sisters: Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. (Heb. 12:1-2)

How many of you have ever tried to hit a target with something? Perhaps it was aiming at a target with a bow and arrow. Perhaps it was aiming for the bulls eye in a game of darts. Perhaps it was hitting a tin can with a pellet gun. Whatever it was that you were aiming at, think about this: how important was it that you kept your eyes on the target? If you had tried it blindfolded or looked away, would your chances of hitting the target been as successful? Of course not, because we know that when trying to hit the mark, it is important that we always keep our eyes on the target, or else we will most likely miss.

This is why Saint Paul tells us today to keep "our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith." Saint Paul knows that if we are looking more to the things of this world, and not on Christ, then we will not hit the target. Our goal is to persevere in our faith and to make it to heaven, but how can we do this if our eyes are not fixed on the leader and perfecter of our faith? The truth is that we can't do it, unless we are willing to take our eyes off all the distractions of this world and focus them solely on Jesus.

The synagogue worker and the woman with the hemorrhages from today's gospel sought out Jesus and did not take their eyes off of Him. By doing this, He came to them and answered their prayers. He is there waiting for us ready to give us grace beyond measure, all we need to do is continue to keep our eyes and hearts fixed on Him.

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day. We thank you and give you praise for the many blessings in our lives. Lord help us to persevere through the many trials and challenges that we will face. Let us do everything for you and your glory, and may we always stay humble at heart. Lord God, we pray for all those who have taken their eyes off of you, may they be brought back to your love and mercy. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.