O LORD, You have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, You know it altogether. Psalm 139:1-4

My prayer for you is to have a blessed and Christ-filled New Year!

As near as I can tell, this year is going to get interesting. That statement isn't based on prophetic insight as much as it comes from an article carried by New Scientist. It appears a Japanese laboratory has developed a method of making a picture of a person's thoughts.

Now, to be honest, I've often wanted such a device when I was teaching confirmation class or preaching a sermon. It would be great sport to know if my students were thinking about the end of class or if their church-going parents were meditating on the pot roast or the Sunday football kickoff while I was preaching.

In all honesty, the Japanese invention is not that advanced. Still, it is a breakthrough, a frightening breakthrough.

Frightening, because I don't want anyone knowing what I'm thinking or what I'm dreaming. Inside you and me there are things -- sinful things -- things that were never meant to be scrutinized or put on public display.

Still, according to Psalm 139, there is one person who does know us, both inside and out. Those verses say the Lord has searched us and known us. He knows what we're doing and what we're thinking. He knows all of our ways and words, even before we do.

Consider that. In spite of being fully aware of our twisted thinking and our sinful longings, the heavenly Father still loved us enough to send His Son into the world to win our salvation. Amazing!

In spite of knowing His persecutors, His betrayers, His deniers, and the end that awaited Him -- in spite of knowing each of us, Jesus spent His entire life doing all that was necessary so we might be redeemed, forgiven, and saved. This is why God's knowledge of me is not frightening. On the contrary, His knowledge and love assures me I will be safe and secure no matter what 2009 may bring.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, You have searched me and know me. In spite of that, You continue to love me. Now, in this New Year, I, one of Your redeemed children, pray for Your ongoing guidance and support. In Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Genesis 1-3    Matthew 1

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