I am one of the hundreds of millions of people living on this earth. One person of many nationalities, languages,ethnic origins, and diverse personalities. I am a miniscule speck in the history of mankind, and yet, my faith tells me I am of extraordinary importance to God.

God has created every human being so that no matter what country one is born, no matter what skin color a person has, no matter what religion or lack of religion one possessed at birth, no matter what political beliefs one has today, no matter what financial wealth or lack of wealth one has, God loves you and God loves me. Now, this is an extraordinary thought. What amazing possibilities, if true. At some point in time every person must decide for themselves, do you believe it, or do you not?

I have heard the idea of God’s love expressed this way…the greatest law of love was made clear by God when He said, “Love the Lord your God with your whole heart, mind, and soul; and your neighbor as yourself”. In saying this He was putting all of the Ten Commandments in a nutshell. If all Ten Commandments can be summarized in this one great commandment then perhaps an examination of our lives can be assessed by asking ourselves how our daily activities demonstrate our love of God through actions toward friends, family, neighbors, clients and work associates.

I saw a poster some years ago with a dirty little defiant-looking kid on it and the caption under the photo read “God made me and God don’t make junk”. I thought, wouldn’t it be great if every child had that poster in their bedroom as a reminder that God made them and they are very important–just as they are today.

Children and people of all ages need higher self-esteem, confidence and assurance that they are loved just as they are, no changes necessary, no strings attached. They need to be reminded that God loves them and therefore everything is possible.

This past year has been an extremely difficult year for many of my friends and business associates and some members of my immediate family. These people have lost their jobs. Job hunting is difficult, money is lacking, bills keep coming, uncertainty grows, the pressure mounts and so it continues. When I am asked for advice I try to help. I can offer suggestions about how to make the job hunt more fruitful.  I can offer to help with new contacts or references. I can help family members with a small short-term loan. But, I recognize my ability to be helpful is limited. In the end, each person must find their own way. This is a challenging time and perhaps it’s a good time to find out if God really loves you.

Examine your own capabilities. What skills and talents do you have? Of what value are they? How can they be applied in new situations? Look around at the resources you have available. Are friends and family willing to help you? Is there hope for the future? Will your life be better or worse five years from now?

Years ago Sandy and I owned a weekend home in a wooded area with lakes nearby. Flocks of geese would fly over the house frequently. I’ve been told that when geese fly in formation they are 70% more efficient than if they fly alone. The geese in the back honk encouragement to the leaders to inspire them to fly faster. When the leader gets tired he moves back allowing another goose with more energy to take the lead. These geese seem to understand the value of family togetherness and teamwork. This is clearly a case where God made geese to respond this way. It’s in their nature to act as team players. Why is it that we, so often, try to fly alone?

Lord, give me the courage to change the things I can, the serenity to accept the things I cannot change and the wisdom to know the difference. (Alcoholics Anonymous prayer)

Lord, I shall live this day but once, any good therefore, that I can show to any human being let me do it now. For I will not pass this way again. (Anonymous)

“Never dwell on what we have lost; instead look at what we have left.” (Robert Schuler)

“It isn’t where you’re coming from but where you are going that counts.” (Ella Fitzgerald)

“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.” (John Wooden)

“I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. The myth is more important than history.  That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. That laughter is the only cure for grief. And, I believe that love is stronger than death.” (Robert Fulghum)

Commit your works to the Lord and your plan will be established. (Proverbs 16:3)