This particular memory of my father keeps coming back to me, reminding me of the importance of keeping my eyes fixed upon Jesus. I was coming into the sanctuary for worship at the church in Drummoyne. My father was at the pipe organ playing meditation music prior to the service commencing. I was struck by the appropriateness of the tune he was playing in a meditative mood. Helen H. Lemmel wrote the words and tune of the song. It is called: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus”. The lyrics of the chorus are:

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.”

These words bring a warm challenge to us that if we keep our eyes on Jesus many of the troubles of the world will grow dim. Then the last words in the third verse tell us: “Then go to a world that is dying, His perfect salvation to tell.”

I recall reading an article in a religious magazine that told of identical twins, one a pastor, the other a physician. When asked how people could tell them apart, their parents said, “One preaches, the other practices.” When Christians practice, neighbourhoods get rebuilt. When Christians sacrifice, communities get restored.

Jesus is our example in all things. He practiced. He worked to relieve every case of suffering that He saw. He had little money to give, but He often denied Himself of food in order to relieve those who appeared more needy than He. From the life Jesus lived in His daily relationship with His Heavenly Father, it is quite easy to see how He was motivated to practice a caring approach to all He met.

We have all heard of Peter’s experience of walking on the water towards Jesus and sinking when he takes his eyes off Jesus. And then what happened? Jesus immediately reached out His hands to Peter and pulled him to safety.

A noted writer and pastor John Killinger maintains that “the fall of Peter in the story of walking on the water is transhistorical.” By that he means it can – or will – happen to us.

Jesus can still help us back in the boat. He has called us and makes it clear what he can do. Keep you eyes fixed on the Master, who summons us to follow Him on a sacred and fulfilling journey.

Bill Gillard