It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.
Ephesians 1: 11-12 The Message
“I’ve got my eye on you!” As a parent, I’ve said these words a few times, often followed with a smile. Yet I’ve also heard these words. Sometimes people watch us to see how we handle a situation, or if we stay on the right path. Other times, people are watching us out of enjoyment, amusement, entertainment, admiration or affection.
Here, the Apostle Paul shares an amazing truth: long before we had ever heard the name “Jesus”, our Lord already had his eye upon us. God’s love for us even proceeds His creation of us!
For Paul, this is more than a passing thought, or a random idea. Instead, it is a theme in His writings: God loved us from the time the world was created. Listen to what Paul says in verse 4 of this letter to the Ephesians:
“Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love.” Ephesians 1: 4 The Message
Not only did God see us, but he knows us intimately. The Almighty even knows how many hairs we have upon our heads! It is through our relationship with the Lord that we can find out who we are, and what we are to do with our lives. In all things, when we turn to God for direction, He is there. The Lord is just waiting for us to ask Him what path we ought to take. It’s alright to ask for directions, for He is already watching us.
On this day, rejoice and celebrate the Lord’s love for you, a love which began long before you were even born!
Prayer
God of all time and space, Thank you for loving long before I took my first breath. Forgive me when I judge those who take a different path than I would, for only You know what direction each of us are to take. I know you see all my flaws, and every mistake I make. Yet You look past my imperfections to see Your beautiful creation deep within me. Help me to remember to reach out and ask for directions from You. Daily, remind me of Your deep, long-lasting, and redemptive love for me. I pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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