Focus

It's hard not to get caught up in looking forward on this, the first day of a new year. I shy away from making resolutions and lists of things that I want to accomplish this year, but I can't help but reflect upon a vision that I have for 2009 in general.

All day today I have been thinking in terms of focus. I recognize that there are things that I would like to focus less on this year, and areas where I need to direct more attention this year.

As I was out walking this evening I was thinking about my last visit to the optometrist.

In his office there is an eye chart on the wall across from the chair where I sit. The object of the exam is for me to attempt to focus on that chart and to read the letters printed on it.

When I am not wearing my contact lenses or glasses it is impossible for me to read any of the letters, but the doctor puts a contraption in front of my face and inserts different strengths of lenses in the slots and suddenly I am able to see all of the letters clearly. Without those lenses, no matter how hard I try, I am not able to focus on the letters in such a way as to read them.

This year, my prayer is that I will remember that within my own strength I will not be able to attain that sense of focus that I need to walk the path I am called to. I pray that I will not forget to look at life through the lenses of Jesus Christ living within me, knowing that it is only then that I will be able to maintain the correct focus and balance in my life.