I know you

Psalm 139: 1-18
New Ark United Church of Christ, Newark, DE
June 3, 2018 – Celebration Sunday with Communion

I know you.

You like to dance and twirl whenever you hear music.  Your smile is contagious and your laughter is like a song.  You think big thoughts.

I know you.

You love to draw and build things. You watch what’s going on around you, paying attention to people and what they’re saying and doing.

I know you.

Your eyes can get as big as saucers.  You love to explore, ask questions, show what you know, get your hands on everything.

I know you.

You know how to express yourself and make yourself heard.  You are so independent; no one can tell you who you are.

I know you.

You sometimes act like you’re not a part of things, but maybe that’s because you want to be the leader, go in a different direction, show just how smart you are.

I know you.

You’re kind and friendly and full of energy.  You take your time to think about stuff.

I know you.

You’re funny and strong and creative and smart.  You care deeply.

I know you.

You’re always thinking.  You ponder the big questions but you’re also in the moment yet sometimes in your own world and so wide open to the one around you.

I know you.

You want to find your tribe, those who will stand with you as fiercely as you will stand with them.

I know you.

You stand out in a crowd, even though sometimes you’re petrified to be in front of one.

I know you.

You’re earnest and smart, and you like to be helpful and make people laugh.

I know you.

You’re not sure where you belong sometimes, but you’re willing to give people a chance, which one day you will realize is a tremendous gift.

I know you.

You are as loyal as the day is long.  You would do anything for those you love and who love you.

I know you.

You’re playful and imaginative and yet you want to be taken seriously.  You know how to keep someone company by just sitting next to them or sharing a good laugh.

I know you.

You’re a good friend to everyone you know.  You’re silly and smart and kind.

I know you.

You’re anxious and scared and worried.  You’re sad and overwhelmed and tired and angry.  You’re disorganized, some days, a real mess.  You try to hide the mess.  You procrastinate.  Your to-do list runs your life.  You thrive on busy.  You long for a rest.  You can’t get out of bed some days.  You struggle with burnout.  Sometimes you lose your patience, lose your temper, lose your way.  You forget to cry, to laugh.  You think you know the answers.  You think you know nothing.  You hang onto a lot of stuff you don’t need.  You want to pull back, run away.  You want to belong.  You make mistakes.  You’re afraid you’ll disappoint others.  You wonder what’s the meaning of all this, why are you here, what will the future be like.  You want your life to mean something, to make a difference.

I know you.

You’re beautiful and generous and forgiving and kind. You’re brave. You never give up, and you’re working on when to let go.  You have healthy doubts.  You have faith in what’s good and holy and true.  You make sacrifices.  You ask questions.  You hunger and thirst for justice.  You love this world and you do what you can to love others.

I know you.

You are my masterpiece.  Just the way you are.  Love yourself.  Because I wouldn’t change a thing.

Love, 

God