Read: Genesis 1:26-31
Let us make humans in our image. (v. 26 NRSV)
The Sioux people of the northern Great Plains in North America believed the longest distance we journey in life is between our head and our heart. This distance is approximately 18 inches. But sometimes it takes us a lifetime to travel that distance. For example, many people love the familiar song, “Jesus Loves Me.” The words are easy to sing. But why is it hard to believe this truth in our hearts that we are loved?
Verse 3 says, “Jesus loves me this I know, as he loved so long ago.” Our passage today reminds us that we were created in God’s image. He created us in love and declared what he made was “very good” (v. 31). He chose us in love before we were born to be a part of his family (Eph. 1:4-5). God intimately knit us together in our mother’s womb (Ps. 139:13). We know love because God loved us first; God is love (1 John 4:7-8, 19). He showed us his love by sending his Son to save us (John 3:16). He has loved us from before the foundation of the world.
In this series, we will examine various passages that remind us that God loves us. We will also look at what prevents us from believing this truth. Traveling that distance between our head and heart takes time and effort. But it is worth it. Are you ready to make that journey?
As you pray, ask the Holy Spirit to help you know in your heart that you are loved.
About the Author
Nancy Boote
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church of America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband.
