"God loves each of us as if there were only one of us"

The assertion that God loves each of us as if there were only one of us suggests a radical and deeply personal relationship between the divine and every individual. The love described here is not diluted by the existence of countless others; it is neither divided nor shared in portions. Rather, each person receives from God an infinite, undivided love, a love so complete that it would be no less if extended to only one soul.

Here, individuality is affirmed rather than diminished in the context of divine love. One need not fear being just another among multitudes, vying for fragmentary attention. The Creator’s love is not distributed by measure, depending on one’s worth, station, or need. It is inherently whole, reflecting the infinite nature of God, who is not bound by human constraints of time, capacity, or partiality. God perceives and cherishes the unique qualities, struggles, and aspirations of each person. To God, each individual is singular, a universe unto themselves, and worthy of absolute love.

This perspective offers profound comfort and dignity. Feelings of insignificance, common to human experience, are remedied by the belief in an all-seeing, all-loving Presence who cares for the individual as a unique, beloved creation. The fear of getting lost amid the crowd dissipates when one realizes that their joys, sorrows, hopes, and failings matter deeply. Every prayer, every longing, is attended to with the full focus of divine attention.

Saint Augustine’s insight addresses both the grandeur and intimacy of divine love. It inspires humility and gratitude, recognizing that such love is a gift rather than an entitlement. It also calls forth a response, not just to bask in this love, but to love others with a similar depth and generosity, recognizing in each person the singular value that comes from being absolutely and personally loved.