Where Sparrows Fall

I've been trying to get fitter recently, and one afternoon went out for a cycle ride. On my ride I noticed a dead sparrow on the kerbside of the road. It caused me to think of Jesus’ words in today’s scripture; ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows’ (Matthew 10:29-31).

I remember someone commenting about those words, that, as you go about everyday life, even walking in a garden or park, you don’t tend to see dead sparrows lying around – as they seem to die out of human sight.

Perhaps that highlights the point that Jesus was making. If even a humble sparrow’s death is not hidden from our Father’s eyes, how much more does He notice and care for us, His children, who’re ‘worth more than many sparrows’.

When I was a teenager, and didn’t know God, I struggled with a deep fear of dying, and found the thought very painful that, if I died, the world would just go on as though I’d never been here at all. It made life seem so meaningless to me.

It’s different now I know that I’m precious to my Heavenly Father. He tells me that my name is engraved on the palms of His hands, and that He’s known me and loved before the world began. Many people in our society are seeking their ‘fifteen minutes of fame’ – longing to leave their mark on this world. As Christians God wants us to know that we’re already of immeasurable significance to him.

When Jesus spoke the words in our scripture today, I believe He already knew that His own life, given on a cross for mankind’s sin, was to be the true measure of the worth of each of His listeners, and of us also who read His words today.

Many years ago I heard a well known Christian speaker, and something he said remains in my heart until this day. He said that there are flowers on mountain meadows that no human eye ever sees, yet their faces are turned up to heaven, seen and enjoyed by the One who made them.

Maybe you feel insignificant and overlooked today - I believe that the Holy Spirit wants to speak into your heart that you’re not hidden from God’s sight, and you’re precious to your Father in heaven.


Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You that You gave Your life for me on the cross, so that I could be forgiven and adopted into Your family. I find it hard to understand how You value me so much, but I choose to believe that You do, and to open my heart to Your love today. In Your name I pray. Amen.