Rear-view Mirror

Automobiles and other vehicles need a rear-view mirror to allow the driver to see rearward. 

This mirror is necessary because a driver should not only focus on where he is going, but to know the movements of other vehicles around him, avoiding collisions and other accidents.  

In our spiritual journey however, a rear-view mirror can only distract us from our goal. 

It is unnecessary. We simply need to singularly focus on where we are going. 

Total focus is demonstrated for us by Jesus during the days leading to His crucifixion. He had a purposeful approach to the city where He knew he would be nailed on the cross, after which He would be resurrected. 

“As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51 NLT)

Resolutely means: bravely, decisively, firmly, steadfastly, obstinately. 

Jesus’ eyes were on the cross. Anything beyond, beneath, beside, or behind that would be a distraction, like images and movements seen from a rear-view mirror. 

Remember when a man (verses 60-61) showed interest in following Jesus, but first wanted to say good-bye to his family? Jesus told him: “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”

Nothing could deter nor stop Jesus from His goal on the cross: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)

He tells us to focus, simply focus on Him.   

How then can we be as focused on Him as He was focused on the cross? 

“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” Jeremiah 29:13

Wholeheartedly means: seeking His grace to enable us to commit our life to God totally and completely.