ἐμβλέπω: How Jesus Sees You
emblepó (em-blep'-o): To look at, to gaze upon, to consider intently
This week's Greek word is emblepo, used in Mark 10:21 when Jesus looked at the rich young ruler: "And Jesus, looking at him, loved him." I've always loved this verse because the rich young ruler has sort of made a fool of himself. He's made a terrible error to think he could earn his way into the Kingdom of God while still worshipping money. But Jesus looks at him and loves him. He loves him despite his idolatry of money and also loves him enough to call him out of it. It's truly beautiful!
But what's so cool is that when you study this word, you'll see this isn't just a casual glance—emblepo means to look and consider intently, to really see someone.
Emblepo appears twelve times in the New Testament and each time it marks a moment of spiritual weight: a command to perceive God's provision, a compassionate glance from Christ that pierces the heart, an arresting stare that convicts of sin, or an upward gaze anticipating the Lord's return. In Mark 10, Jesus didn't just notice the young man—He looked at him, knowing him. He saw his heart and despite it all- loved him deeply. That's the same kind of love God has for us. So often we say, "how could God love me? I have done XYZ" but He loves us so much, despite the sin, and loves us so much that He calls us out of it.
It's a beautiful reminder that Jesus doesn't just see our actions or our failures. He's not wanting us to just check the boxes. He wants US- all of us. Not just brute obedience.
That's what the rich young ruler thought He was all about. Rather, He sees us—really sees us—then loves and calls us anyway.
As those who are truly seen and still truly loved, we are called to respond to Jesus. The rich young ruler turned away discouraged- he wanted just performance religion. He wanted to check the box and feel good about himself. He wanted to earn his way to heaven. Will we do the same? Or will we turn to Christ in full dependence?
Where do you need to be reminded today that Jesus is looking at you with love?
Scriptures where we find "emblepó":
Matthew 6:26 — "Look at the birds of the air"
John 1:36 — “and he looked at Jesus as He walked,"
Luke 20:17 — "But Jesus looked at them and said,"
