Not a Spectator Sport

“Then when they were alone, he turned to the disciples and said, "How privileged you are to see what you have seen. I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it.’” Luke 10:23–24

See: to perceive with one’s eyes, experience, or witness; find good or attractive qualities in someone; discern after reflection; be a spectator of

Privilege: something regarded as a rich opportunity and bringing particular pleasure

My Abba,

This truth grips my heart: “How privileged you are to see what you have seen.” I realize I don’t fully appreciate the immensity of this privilege of sight you have given me. Experiencing your good qualities and discerning who you are after reflection is not something I want to take for granted.

When I think of privileges (rich opportunities that bring particular pleasure), a few ideas dash to the front of my mind. But as I recount my privileges, I want to recognize the spiritual sight you have given me as the greatest gift of all. 

You have allowed me to experience (see) your grace, truth, and love. I have witnessed (seen) your Spirit moving to utterly transform my heart and the hearts of others. 

I know I only get a glimpse of your glory. But that sight is enough to sweep me off my feet. Just a taste of your infinite beauty almost overwhelms my finite frame. At times, I am left speechless, transfixed by wonder.

That privilege of sight is priceless.

I ask you to deepen my love for you. Make me more keenly aware of what a matchless opportunity it is that your presence dwells in me. 

After more than 40 years of relationship with you, I realize there is still infinitely more to see. I know the eternal celebration of you is a party that will never end. Please continue to open my eyes to the privilege of spiritual sight. The closer I get, the better you look.

I love you,

Mollie

My Child,

You are prone, while you live in the short-term housing of your mortal body, to be captivated by temporary privileges. I understand that. But by the power of my Spirit, you have an opportunity to realign your heart and mind with reality.

Here is reality: Prophets and kings longed to see what you are immersed in every day — Christ living in you. But only I can keep your heart in alignment with that truth. Our enemy, your flesh, and this world offer a maze of deceptive detours every day.

I don’t want you to just watch me like a spectator in the bleachers enjoying the contest from a distance. Relationship with me is not meant to be a spectator sport. I want you on the field participating with me in the heat of the battle. 

I want you to enjoy my perfection firsthand. The more you experience me, the more clearly you will understand this one privilege eclipses all else.

I love you,

Abba

Photo: Iegven Oynshchenko 

NLT