My reading this morning was out of Isaiah 43. In this poetic discourse from the prophet, he reminded Israel – and us – that we are important to God. He spoke God’s words, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”
Isaiah reminds us that God knows us personally – he calls us by name. And he cares about us. He not only knows our needs, he actually cares about them. Isaiah goes on to say, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”
God promises to be with us through all that life hurls our way – why? Isaiah records the words of God saying, “Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you.”
Let these words sink in for a moment.
Whatever Monday has brought your way – remember – God has promised to see you through it. If you are wondering why God would be with you or how God could possibly care for a person like you, remember – God offers his redemption and salvation to each of us because we are precious to him – he loves you.
Live as one loved by God today!
Clay in the Hands 
Pastor Brian, thank you for this reminder of God’s love for us. So easy to forget that on Monday. I like the picture. To me it’s a symbol of our broken hearts and the need for God’s love of the cross to repair. The light of the cross shining through reminds me of a song on the radio, “The wound is where the light shines through.” The wounded heart is where God’s love shines. Thank you for the blessing and being a blessing. (song by Switchfoot).