⁶I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer. ⁷Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. ⁸Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.

Psalm 17:6-8

I believe there is a need within every person to really be seen. It began for me as a young child when I longed for my mother to see me. I yearned to know that I was special, that I made her smile, that she delighted in my presence. As I matured, I looked to others — friends, teachers, coaches, bosses — those I held in high regard.

Along the way, I learned that adoration fades. Applause and accolades go away. New record breakers come along. It isn’t that people intend meanness – it is just how life works.

Along the way, I also learned that Jesus sees me. He not only sees me, he delights in me, his thoughts toward me are pleasant. I am the apple of his eye.

The phrase, apple of your eye, was first used in the Bible. It comes from a Hebrew expression that literally means “little man of the eye,” and it refers to the tiny reflection of yourself that you can see in other people’s pupils. To be the apple of someone’s eye clearly means that you are being gazed upon and watched closely by that person. Your very image is dancing in the eyes of that person! (definition from Christianity.com)

Just as God saw Hagar in the desert, he sees you. You are the apple of his eye. He gazes upon you intently, with adoration in his heart. Today take a moment to gaze into someone’s eyes and look for your reflection in their pupils. (If this feels odd to do with an adult, look for a child. I think they might be willing partners in this exercise.) Once you see your reflection, take a mental picture. Come back to it throughout the day, reminding yourself that he sees you and adores you.