Lifted Up, So We May See Clearly
Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
John 8:21–30
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks words that are both mysterious and deeply revealing. Jesus tells the crowd that he is going away, that they will “die in their sin” if they refuse to believe, and that only when the Son of Man is “lifted up” will they finally understand who he is. These are not easy words. They carry weight, urgency, and a kind of holy sorrow.
But beneath them is a profound truth: sometimes we only see clearly when we are willing to look at Jesus lifted up.
For the people in the Gospel, Jesus’ identity was clouded by assumptions, expectations, and fears. They wanted a Messiah who fit their categories. They wanted answers on their terms. And because of that, they struggled to recognize the One standing right in front of them.
We can relate. There are moments when we, too, misunderstand who Jesus is—not because we don’t love him, but because our vision gets clouded. Stress, disappointment, old wounds, or the desire to stay in control can make it hard to see the truth of Jesus' love and his presence.
But Jesus tells us that when he is lifted up—on the cross, in our prayer, in our surrender—we begin to see differently. The cross reveals a love that doesn’t run away, a mercy that doesn’t give up, and a God who enters our darkness to bring us into light. When we lift our eyes to Jesus, we discover who he truly is . . . and who we truly are.
Lent is a season for that kind of seeing. A season to let Jesus reveal himself again. A season to loosen our grip on the things that keep us spiritually nearsighted. A season to allow Jesus' self-giving love to reshape our understanding of God, of ourselves, and of what really matters.
When we look at Jesus lifted up, we don’t just learn something new—we are changed. We begin to walk with a deeper trust, a quieter confidence, and a renewed sense of belonging to the One who never leaves us.
You are invited to reflect today about what assumptions or expectations about God might be clouding you ability to see Jesus clearly in this season of your life? How is Jesus inviting you to lift your eyes to him—especially in moments of confusion, discouragement, or fear?
Lord Jesus,
you reveal the Father’s heart when you are lifted up.
Clear my vision and open my heart,
so I may recognize Your presence and trust your love.
Draw me closer to you,
and help me walk in the light that only You can give.
Amen.