Psalm 65:6-8

By your strength you established the mountains; you are girded with might. You silence the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, the tumult of the peoples. Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs; you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.

Matthew 10:26-31

“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered and nothing secret that will not become known. What I say to you in the dark, tell in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim from the housetops. Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, fear the one who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. And even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.

When I look out at the ocean, I am reminded of the vastness of God’s world. When I focus on the horizon and all I can see is the sea, I am put in my place. I am small. I am fragile. I am a speck in the created order of that moment. And that doesn’t even include the scope of the world that has come before me in history. Yet, despite my insignificance in size or influence, I also remember that I am loved. I am worthy. The hairs on my head are counted. My God knows me to the core and loves me no matter what. Today, I hope that you will remember that You are loved. God knows you intimately (warts and all) and loves you regardless of what you don’t love about yourself and where you have fallen short. All those you encounter today are loved by God too.

Prayer

Gracious God, if we just pause and look around it is easy to be amazed by Your creative power. You made the mighty oceans, towering mountains, vast plains, and You even made me. Thank You for making me a part of Your creation. Thank You for loving me. Strengthen me to love others today as You do and as You have called me to do. Amen.