“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
Those are Jesus’ words recorded in Luke 12:32, and they encapsulate an enormous portion of Scripture’s story of God and us. Consider some of the big-picture points that verse contains:
- We are God’s flock. We are under his care and protection, because he lays claim to us.
- God tells us not to fear, which is the most frequently repeated command in all of Scripture.
- In addition to being our Shepherd, God is also our Father.
- Our Father delights in graciously giving us more than we deserve.
- God entrusts us with his kingdom, which means that our inheritance in Christ includes full life and privileges within God’s glorious reign.
Having you ever imagined what it would be like to live as kings?
When I first imagine that, I admit that I picture luxury. Palatial mansions, expensive cars, amazing get-a-ways. Those are the kinds of things you’re supposed to surround yourself with if you’re in charge of a kingdom, right? I suppose it depends on what world you’re living in. After telling us that we are heirs of God’s kingdom, Jesus continues his admonition saying, “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in heaven that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Luke 12:33-34).
Well, that’s not what we envisioned, is it? This Sunday morning, we’ll talk more about what it means for us to choose the better kingdom.
— Patrick