1 Corinthians 2:16
Douay-Rheims
16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that we may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
We are given grace in baptism and confirmation to think like Catholics. We are challenge to conform our minds to the mind of Christ, which is the mind of the Church.
We are asked to "put on the mind of Christ" as Catholics. This means thinking like Him and seeing the world like He does.
Looking with the Eyes of Christ would be an entirely different experience than looking at people, events, things, places with our own eyes.
If you have been fortunate enough to have been in love with someone, you will know what I mean by seeing with the eyes of love.
A friend said to me one time about a woman friend who married someone, "I just can't see what she sees in him."
Well, one cannot always answer such questions, but I usually point out the good characteristics, such as "Well, he is a kind and gentleman."
To see with the eyes of Christ may seem impossible to some people.
I actually know people who do not like animals. Some Midwesterners do not want animals in the house. Dogs and cats "belong outside". But, if one loves a pet, one sees things others do not about that animal.
How much more so with humans, the epitome of God's creation?
Seeing with the Eyes of Christ absolutely means not seeing someone for selfish reasons, merely as an extension of our own needs.
Seeing with the Eyes of Christ also does not mean glossing over faults. God loves us even while we are still daily sinners.
However, Christ sees beyond the sin, to His own triumph over sin and death.
As a teacher, I also look for the potential, the hidden characteristics which may not have been seen by others.
Sometimes, parents have been surprised when their children blossom in other situations in school or in the community.
Parents should be happily surprised by the accomplishments of their children which happen after they leave home.
Christ is not surprised by those who grow in grace and the spiritual life. He knew from all time who would respond to His call.
We do not know, but if we try and see with the Eyes of Christ, we are giving people a chance to repent, accept redemption, even come into the Church.
There is no such thing as a person who can be "written off", which is a sign of pride when one thinks like that.
Pray to see others as Christ sees them. You might be "happily surprised" by the person you see.
