There is just something about gently falling snow! What a beautiful way to experience God’s creative touch in nature. 

It’s completely mind-boggling to think that no two snowflakes that have ever fallen to the ground in the history of the world have ever been alike. I look out the window and think of all the tiny flakes that make up just the seven inches of snow covering my yard. Then there is all the snow in my city, my state, and the surrounding states from just this one storm. And then I think of all the snow covering all the mountains and regions all over the world, and all the feet of snow in all the storms throughout the year. According to the Library of Congress website, 1 septillion snow crystals fall from the sky each winter (that’s a 1 followed by 24 zeroes!) How can none of them ever be the same? Scientists have discovered that each crystal that forms in the clouds will change in shape as it falls due to the change in temperature and moisture, which creates so many options for different patterns that it is extremely unlikely for there to ever be a duplicate. What an amazing detail of God’s incredible creation, that when we stop to think about it, fills us with awe and wonder. Each flake that falls from the sky is created with infinite detail. 

Jesus speaks of God’s knowledge of the infinite detail of the universe when talking to HIs disciples. He tells them, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29-30)

The context of these words? Jesus is sending his disciples off to proclaim His message throughout the region of Galilee. They are to preach and teach and heal. He knows they will face opposition and persecution, so He encourages them with these words. 

We can’t fathom how many sparrows are flying around right now, much less how many have lived since the beginning of time, and yet God knows every single bird and its life span. And even more incredible is His knowledge of His people. True, it would be easier to count the hairs on some heads than others! But Jesus makes this point to show the extreme value God has for His disciples. He wants them to know that they don’t need to be afraid – their Father knows them and cares about them down to the most minute detail.

What a wonderful reminder to us. The Creator of this universe didn’t just throw things together randomly. He is so deeply and intimately involved in every aspect of His creation. He has full knowledge of every single element within it. He created each person in His own image, formed all of us specially and uniquely, and cares about each and every one of our needs.

In this world we face trials of many kinds. But we can face whatever we are up against, reassured that the God of septillions of snowflake designs has us in His hands.