Read: Matthew 10:26-33
You are of more value than many sparrows. (v. 31)
If you are familiar with gospel tunes, the song “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” probably comes to mind when you read this passage. The repeated phrase “I know He watches me” provides comfort and reassurance because God is good, and as our Father he knows and cares about whatever situation we’re in. I think of this verse whenever a bird flies into our large picture window overlooking the deck where our birdfeeders are. Sometimes the bird flies off, leaving a feather or a smudge. Sometimes it falls to the deck, stunned, and eventually recovers. But other times, I sadly carry away a limp, motionless creature that didn’t survive the impact.
Even though God cares about each sparrow, he doesn’t suspend the law of gravity. Birds will die, accidents happen, but still that doesn’t negate his presence or love. These comforting words in Matthew 10 (as well as in Luke 12, a similar passage) are tucked between admonitions and warnings about persecution, divisions, fears, and loss of life, reminding us that our loving Father knows us intimately, and we are of great value to him.
That is why we can confidently sing, “When songs give place to sighing, When hope within me dies, I draw the closer to him, From care He sets me free; His eye is on the sparrow, And I know He watches me” (Civilla D. Martin). —Denise Vredevoogd
As you pray, draw close to God and thank him for his watchful eye over you.
About the Author
Denise Vredevoogd is a private piano teacher who lives near Grand Rapids, Michigan. She enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and spending time in nature with her adult sons and daughters.
