6. Someone Cares
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. ”
Fear is one of the worst enemies of human beings. We fear loss of health or security. Some people are so afraid of the unknown that they cannot leave their homes.
Jesus says we should not be afraid of those who speak evil of us or persecute us in other ways. The true life is the life of the Spirit, which God gives to us. Only God can take that from us if we doubt, or betray, or deny God's place in our lives. A healthy respect for God will keep life in focus.
Sparrows are small, unspectacular birds, weighing only a few ounces. They were apparently sold in the local markets of Palestine, priced two for a penny. Luke tells us they were sold at the rate of five for two pennies. In other words, they were so worthless that one was given free when four were purchased.
Jesus tells us that God knows every movement of the sparrows. If God cares that much about seemingly worthless birds, how much more does God care about what happens to each one of us? We need not fear or be discouraged. Someone cares about us. Someone knows each movement we make. Someone provides not only the big things of life, but our daily needs as well. "You are of more value than many sparrows."
For Reflection: Do I know that I am loved by God?
A Prayer Seed:
Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.
Civilla D. Martin (1860-1948)
