More Value Than Many Sparrows

The sparrow in Jesus' day was considered to be of very little value. If you bought two at the market, the cost was one farthing, but two farthings would purchase five sparrows (an extra one was thrown in for free). Some historians say a farthing would today be equal to a fourth of a penny. How many times have we seen a penny laying on the ground and did not think it worth the effort to lean over and pick it up? That was the worth of ten sparrows.

Jesus' disciples were facing great persecution. Jesus was letting them know that difficult days were ahead. Then, He reassured them by saying that God takes notice of when every sparrow falls. The Greek says the word "fall" means "to light" or "to land." Not only does God care when a sparrow falls and dies, but He also notices every time a sparrow lands! Nothing is too small for His care.

Jesus then reassured His disciples, "Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows" (Matthew 10:31). We do not know what we face in the days ahead. Times are looking spiritually dark, but we can rest assured that the God who cares about the landing of every sparrow can certainly take care of His people!

“Let not your heart be troubled,”
His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness,
I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth,
But one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.
—  Civilla D. Martin