Friday, April 27, 2018

Isaiah 43:4-5a

Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, I give people in return for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you ... .

Precious to me

Listen, just listen: You are precious in my sight.

Know this, before anything else. You are wanted, chosen, beloved by God who will give whatever it takes to draw you into the divine embrace that you may know how loved you are.

You are the pearl of great price, the apple of God’s eye. The Holy One looks at you and smiles as we might smile at a tender child, a grandchild, a life for which we would give everything. The light of God’s gaze holds you in a warmth you are to know in the depths of your heart.

I am precious. Repeat this to yourself every morning lest you forget. Make it your mantra. Then go live your day, knowing. For in knowing, you will shine with light of God’s delight.

You will make mistakes and fail. Sin will mar your heart, your words and actions. We all sin and fail to fulfill God’s hope for us. Despair and disappointments will also come. But these moments do not define you. They can do nothing to change the heart of God.

Your entire relationship with God rests on one truth: You are loved with an everlasting love, a love that God delights to give you. This is the fundamental truth of your life.

Wherever you go, whatever you do, trust this. And live.

Pr. David L. Miller