READ: DEUTERONOMY 31:8; PSALMS 8:1-9; 139:1-14; EPHESIANS 2:13

I step into the night,

surrendering my eyes,

enveloped in darkness

like plunging into water.

Desperate for light, I look up.

A few brave stars gleam,

unafraid of night’s unknowing.

Silhouetted black pines rise

and frame the gray sky.

Leaves tumble and wrestle,

keeping me alert.

I can’t tell if I’m alone

or being watched.

But I know someone sees,

someone hears and calls.

His love rushes to me

like the southeast wind.

In the darkness,

I am enclosed.

Held close

and brought near.

He created the universe above my head.

And He tells me I am loved. • Emma Schoessow

• Like Psalm 8, this poem was inspired by how God’s infinite power and love are displayed in the night sky. In a dark world, the light of God’s love comforts us as He draws near to us. On a clear night this week, take some time to step outside and take in God’s marvelous handiwork.

• The vast beauty of a starry sky reminds us that God is all-powerful and in control, which can make us feel rather small and unimportant. However, Romans 5:8 tells us how much God loves and cares for us: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus is God, and through Him all things were created (John 1:1-5; Colossians 1:15-22). Yet He came into our dark world to die on the cross and rise again to save us. How wonderful it is to be loved by the Creator of the universe! Even when troubles and trials come our way, we can find peace in knowing that nothing will ever separate us from the love of our Father (Romans 8:38-39). Is there a darkness that you are facing in your life? Consider taking some time to tell Jesus about it, asking Him to help you see His love and light. (John 8:12)

When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? Psalm 8:3-4 (NIV)