I used to play hide-and-seek with my children. They would hide, and I would search for them. The fun of seeking was knowing that someone was hiding, and the fun of hiding was knowing that someone was seeking. Our favorite pastime always ended in a happy reunion with smiles and laughter.

But as a pastor I am concerned for people who feel that no one is looking for them or fear that someone might really see them. My heart breaks for people who ask themselves, Does anyone care that I was even here? Who notices me? How can I be in the middle of a crowd and feel like no one sees me? Do I matter? Would anyone love me if they really knew what goes on inside me?

This beloved psalm responds to these worries. God knows what we are like—our heart, fears, thoughts, motives, dreams, and disappointments. God knows our past, present, and future. God understands and notices what's going on around us, to us, and inside us. There is no need or reason to pretend that we are perfect because Jesus loves us wholeheartedly, without question, including all of the not-so-perfect parts inside us.

When I read this personal psalm, I hear God’s voice saying, “I’ve got my eye on you.” It is not a warning; it is the promise of a loving, protective parent who knows, sees, and cares for us. God’s complete knowledge of us is a blessing rather than a burden because of God’s everlasting love.