Luke 12:32-40 (NRSV)
Read Luke 12:32-40 on biblegateway.com
Verse 32"Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Verse 33Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. Verse 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Verse 35"Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; Verse 36be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Verse 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. Verse 38If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. Verse 39"But know this: if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. Verse 40You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour."
Devotion
There is plenty to worry about in life: the economy, disasters (natural and man-made), family and health. The list seems endless. Worry can cause us to fear. What good news it is to hear our Lord say, “Fear not, little flock”! Scholars identify these words of Jesus as addressed to the early Christian community and its struggle for recognition, unity and cohesion. But the words also speak to our struggle and fear today.
It is comforting to know Jesus is my Good Shepherd. Through his death on the cross he has saved me. Through the power of his resurrection I am given new life. In Baptism, he washes away my sin. In Holy Communion, his grace and forgiveness are mine. Together with others, he has placed me in his own flock. I rest secure, knowing I belong to him.
Prayer
Good Shepherd, your care and protection are with me each day. For that I give thanks! May this knowledge empower me as I face my fears. Make me strong in faith as I continue to witness and serve in your name. Stay with me and guide me, for I pray this in your holy name. Amen.