Seen Through Eyes of Grace

Have you ever responded with “It is good to be seen” when someone said, “it’s good to see you”? This response means we’re happy to be alive. But it can sometimes make others wonder if we’re glad to see them too or if it was all about us. I mention this because sometimes we’re so busy thinking about ourselves that there’s no room for others.
 
We all have a desire to be seen. We ache to be, not only, seen in the everyday sense, we long to be seen as we potentially are – to have someone see us as we could be, are meant to be, are hoping and growing toward.
 
In the story of choosing King David, we find the prophet Samuel on a divine mission. God had instructed him to go to the house of Jesse, to anoint the next king of Israel. Samuel was no stranger to such assignments, having previously anointed Saul as king. However, this time, God’s approach was different.
 
When Samuel arrived at Jesse’s house, he saw Jesse’s sons, who could be kings. They looked strong and impressive, catching Samuel’s eye. But God reminded Samuel that what people see isn’t always what matters to God. “People look at how things appear on the outside, but God looks at what’s in the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b, NIV). Although the scripture doesn’t mention David’s desire to be seen, God saw and chose him. David’s heart mattered more than his appearance. His flaws, insecurities, and detailed life show God’s choice despite imperfections. This means even we, with limitations, can be seen and chosen by God.
 
Desiring to be seen is not inherently wrong and it’s a human need to be seen. For example, when we hold babies in front of us, they like looking at our faces. They want us to notice them, and they respond to us. Most of us want to be noticed, just like that. We don’t just want people to see us as we are now; we want them to see us as we could be, the person we’re trying to become.
 
We live in an age and culture when being seen as we would like to be is an art form that brings both fear and reassurance. Think of the effort that goes into social media accounts and managing our appearance in the world. The shadow side of this desire is the anxiety about being seen as we fear we really are.
 
It is, however, a comforting and empowering thought that God sees us as we really are—with all our flaws, insecurities, and limitations—and then chooses us anyway. God’s grace is not overwhelmed by our fear, insecurities and shortcomings. Instead, God’s grace transforms us, elevating our weaknesses into opportunities for God to shine through.
 
When we feel inadequate or unworthy, we can find comfort in the example of David. David wasn’t perfect, but he was chosen because of his heart and to accomplish extraordinary things. God does not require us to be flawless. God simply asks for our willingness to be vessels through which God’s divine purpose can be fulfilled. Just as God chose David, God chooses each one of us to play a unique and significant role in God’s grand design. Know that, you are seen and loved by God and it’s good to be seen through the eyes of grace.
 
Pray with me: God, we humbly come to you, aware of our flaws. Like David, our hearts matter more than appearances. Thank you for your grace that uses our imperfections in your plan. Empower us to fulfill your purpose despite weaknesses. Transform our shortcomings for your glory. Thank you for seeing us and loving us unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Written by Rev. Kay Dubuisson