Matthew 10:29, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."

Today has been another day of firsts in our community. Today, Harris County and the city of Houston announced that we are to Stay Home, Stay Safe, and all non-essential businesses must close. Everyone is affected in some way. Perhaps you are even losing income. Maybe you know someone, or you yourself, are sick.
Even if you are not sick, losing income, or have a loved one who is sick, I imagine you are feeling moments of stress and concern about the pandemic and what may come in the future. If you feel this way, you are not alone. Other people in your neighborhood are right there with you in this feeling. Even the disciples of Jesus needed his encouragement when faced with an unknown future.
Jesus gives the encouragement we need. He cares for us! He loves us! He knows everyone who has died from the coronavirus. He knows all who are currently sick. He knows all who are suffering loss of income. He knows when fear strikes your heart.
God knows all this but doesn't rebuke us. He doesn't turn away from us. God shows us how much he loves us when he compares us to sparrows. God knows everything. He knows when a little sparrow falls to the ground. "You are worth more than many sparrows" he says. You are worth more!
Our worth is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Scripture teaches us, "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (1 Timothy 1:15). We matter so much to God that he was willing to die for us even while we were still sinners rebelling against him. Nothing stands in the way of Christ's ability to love us!
Let us rejoice in God today. May God grant you peace as you think about how much Jesus loves you today and how much he will love you always.