by Kala Loptien

We Are Loved

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Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12: 6-7 ESV

We had the opportunity to stand in awe of a much different landscape this week. The desert. There’s a stillness, a calm and a unique beauty that abounds. I was enamored with the vegetation. All the details of their makeup were created with intention, in order to grow and thrive in this environment. After taking multiple photos of various cacti, I did a little research on these exquisite succulents.

Most cacti are created to withstand extreme drought. Some are able to go a year or more without moisture because they’ve adapted to conserve and store water. Their prickly spines help provide shade and ward off intruders. Surprisingly, there are over 1,500 species, varying in appearance. What an intentional, creative God we serve!

The Author of Life, our Creator, made all things with this kind of care. And they were all good. In fact, we are reminded over and over how much He cares for all of creation — with extra emphasis and regard for us, His children. He knows every spike on each cactus. He knows every single hair on our heads. Does that overwhelm you?

His great love for us is hard to fully comprehend. There aren’t even words or ways to understand it. Yet we experience and feel it in so many ways: when we are reminded of His sacrificial love; when we hear His word and partake in the sacraments; when we stand in awe of His creation; when He reminds us He has good things planned. He is our Maker. We were set apart, created with intention, each of us with our own unique attributes and gifts. We were fearfully and wonderfully made to serve God and bring Him glory always.

The wonder, intricacies and beauty of God’s creation help us pause and consider His great care for every living thing. But even more, we recognize His great love for us as His beloved children.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado