Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:29-31)

A Bird's Eye View As you have seen, photos of the earth taken from the space shuttle and the International Space Station are incredible. We were fortunate enough to see these vehicles in the night sky this past summer. These photo images taken from hundreds of miles away are so magnified and yet are so clear. From such a high altitude with this high-technology imaging, urban city streets, commercial building rooftops, and even sidewalks are visible. Zooming in much closer to a much smaller distance and minute scope, a different technological adaptation of photo imaging can also be amazing! If these things are all possible, surely God, the Creator of the universe, can focus on the most minute details of his creation. Nothing escapes his glance. As Ethel Waters sang in "Showboat," "Why should I be discouraged? His eye is on the sparrow and I know he watches me." So in the midst of our struggles, hardships, and challenges, we find that we are never fully out of view. That knowledge helps us to praise God no matter where we are. God sees all and knows all.

Gracious God, help us to be encouraged and strengthened by the assurance that we are never off your screen. During this winter we noticed birds in trees or on the telephone wires that are under your watchful care. We praise you and are grateful to you for keeping an eye on us. Amen.

Carol Morrill

Reference: The Book of Matthew in the "I Worship", Daily Devotional Bible