“Don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” Luke 12:32
Lord Jesus, the truths contained in this one 17-word sentence stretch our minds, enthrall our hearts, and buckle our knees. First of all, thank you for making us your “little flock” by your sacrificial work as the Lamb of God. You have taken away our sin, and taken us into the heart of our Father. Nothing has more power to expel our fears than being certain of our Father’s love for us (1Jn.4:18).
Now as our Good Shepherd, you care for us, protect us, and will lead us into the fullness of God’s Kingdom—an inheritance we now share with you (Heb.1:2; Rom.8:17). We trust you when you speak of our Father’s happiness in giving us the Kingdom; but we also confess our unbelief.
By your Holy Spirit, enable our feeble hearts to grasp the wonder of such grace-riches and great hope. It seems too great, too futuristic, too beyond our ability to comprehend. Like Esau, we often prefer tangible, instant gratification, rather than waiting for you to be the “Yes!” to every promise God has made. (Gen.25:27-34).
Jesus, until you return, free us to live as outward-loving communities of grace, not ingrown cloisters of anxiety. Worshipping you, sharing the Gospel, creating beauty, loving our neighbors, advocating for justice, extending your mercy… these are sure markers of the present and coming Kingdom. Our labors in you will never be in vain because your labors for us were perfect and complete. So Very Amen.