Without question, our attention is in high demand today. Advertisers and content creators pay good money to ensure you see and think about their products. With the storm of distraction around us, have you ever felt overwhelmed by it all? Sorry to pile on, but Jesus demands your attention too. And more than just a passing moment here and there, our thoughts and attention ought to be continually on him.
“Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession …” (Hebrews 3:1).
Consider (katanoeō) Jesus: that is to direct the mind carefully towards him. It’s the same verb used in Heb. 10:24 or Luke 12:24, 27. But what’s involved in “considering” Christ? If we’re to listen to the writer’s wisdom, how will our focus change our lives?
Look at him (Heb. 3:1; 12:3). How do you view Jesus? Don’t forget that he’s multi-faceted and complex, just like you! Often during a funeral, we’ll all share stories about someone, sometimes shocked by how little we knew about their passions or hobbies. Don’t settle for a superficial view of Christ! As the Hebrews writer explains, he’s the apostle, the high priest, the suffering savior, and the king (to name a few). Consider Jesus by examining the full extent of his character and impact beyond the surface-level stuff.
Look to him (Heb. 12:1-2). When troubling and difficult times come, who do you turn to? Hopefully, there’s someone in your life you can lean on for guidance and counsel. But even if there’s no one around, Christ is always connected to you. He knows your struggles and temptations, having gone on before us in this marathon journey to the finish line. Considering Jesus means to count on him, lean on him, and look to him. Do you?
Imitate him (Heb. 13:12-16). As a kid, I always tried to be like the older guys. That’s what happens when we “think a lot” of someone — we want to be like them! Far more than just dressing like Jesus or talking like him, when we see Christ’s sacrifices, it leads us to sacrifice too. We follow him “outside the camp” by living with an otherworldly focus. This world isn’t our home — life isn’t about pleasure or happiness. Do you consider Jesus enough to suffer with him?
Trust him (Heb. 10:19-23). The closer you examine something, the more you’ll see the cracks and weaknesses. Ever get close to your spouse and see the wrinkles and gray hair starting to form? The closer we examine Jesus — considering him and the things he claims — it’s obvious that his promises are faithful and true! When we bring our attention to him, we see how he’d never leave us out to dry. He loves us and wants our best. Do you believe that Jesus tells you the truth?
Honor him (Heb. 10:26-31). When someone comes to work at your house, you can tell a lot about them if they take off their shoes or put on booties. They’re showing you and your home respect by keeping it clean. But how often do we live before God with dirty, mud-caked boots? Considering Jesus means keeping ourselves pure and showing honor and respect for what he’s done. His blood and suffering for us are worth our obedience! And to respect him, living with godliness changes everything!
Jesus is worth focusing on! And as we consider Christ, let’s see the weight and importance that kind of attention brings to our walk with him.
