Take Heed: The Light of the Body

Jesus about the eye being the "light of the body" underscores the significant influence of what we choose to focus our eyes on. In this context, the eyes are described as gateways to the soul, meaning that what we see and consume visually has a profound impact on our inner being. For instance, exposure to harmful content, whether through television, magazines, or other forms of media, can corrupt and pollute our minds and hearts.

Matthew 6:22 emphasizes that if your eyes are healthy—focused on what is pure and good—your whole body will be full of light. This metaphor suggests that purity in what we view leads to a purity within, while looking upon evil or impure things leads the body into darkness.

Jesus warns: "Take heed," meaning be cautious about what you look at. He emphasizes turning away from lustful desires and evil images, as continued exposure can lead to spiritual and moral corruption. It suggests that a "second look" can be just as dangerous, as it may allow impurity to take root within.

Jesus explains that if your entire body is full of light, with no part in darkness, it will shine brightly like a lamp. The message is clear: focus on what is pure and good, and holiness will follow. It’s not merely about what we consume with our physical bodies but rather about what we allow our eyes to rest upon and our ears to hear.

The influence of media and words is powerful, and these can corrupt our minds if we are not vigilant. It is important to fill our lives with positive, uplifting content that reinforces our faith and aligns with God's values. By doing so, we allow our bodies to be vessels of God’s light.

The ultimate source of light and purity is Jesus Himself. When we fix our eyes on Him and His teachings, our lives reflect His light, allowing no room for darkness. This means being intentional in our gaze and focus, committing to a life led by His love and righteousness.

In summary, safeguarding our eyes and ears from negative influences and focusing on Jesus leads to a life filled with light and holiness. By being mindful of what we consume visually and audibly, we can ensure that we live as reflections of Christ's light in a world that often veers towards darkness.