“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7 NIV)
The Lord Jesus speaks to His disciples about the dangers that lie ahead. There is a real possibility that they will even be put to death because of their faith. Yet, Jesus says, that must never be a reason to deny Him. As severe as persecution may be, the consequences of rejecting Jesus are far more serious. Physical death cannot compare with the eternal judgment that follows denying Him.
At the same time, Jesus offers His disciples powerful encouragement. Their lives are in God’s hands. He knows them and cares for them.
To show how precious people are to God, Jesus points to the sparrows. They were sold for a very small amount of money and seemed to have little value. Yet not a single sparrow escapes God’s notice. If God cares so deeply for these little birds, how much more will He care for those who believe in Him!
The next time you see sparrows hopping along the sidewalk, in a park, or in your own backyard, remember these words of Jesus. God knows every sparrow. He knows you as well. And you are worth far more to Him than a whole flock of sparrows. He will never lose sight of you.