Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.
(Luke 12:32)
 

Luke 12:32-48

Many of these promises that Jesus makes are a bit puzzling. What does he mean by saying that the Father is pleased to give us the kingdom? Firstly, what is the Kingdom of God? I used to think that it was heaven, or somewhere removed from this present world – not on planet Earth, maybe sometime after we die, or at the very end of time – if time ever comes to an end. Secondly, why would God give it to me? Or does Jesus mean that it is a gift from God to ALL of us who count ourselves as members of Jesus’ flock? And how do we receive this gift if we are no longer alive? Or is the Kingdom of God a contented, just arrangement of politics and society here on Earth? (“The Kingdom of God is among you.” Luke 17:21.)

We have to see today’s verse in its context of Luke 12, which is about trusting in God’s providence, God providing for our material needs – our food, drink and clothing. Jesus tells us to set our hearts on the Kingdom of God, and God will supply all these things. However, I have seen some very other-worldly people who struggle to clothe and educate their children, never mind the countless Christians in poor communities who, through no fault of their own, even have difficulty finding sufficient food for their families.

No. Jesus is not advising us to be improvident and to simply sit back and trust God to meet all our needs. Remember the old saying: ‘God helps those who help themselves.’ This is not actually in the Bible, but a similar sentiment is expressed in Proverbs 12:11, “Those who work their land will have plenty of bread, but whoever follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.” This optimistic verse was perhaps written in a time when agriculture was the mainstay of the economy and very reliable. But in our less predictable times, we need to have enormous trust in God’s providence. Let us be open to acknowledging every gift that comes to us from God. 

What provisions am I making for “a rainy day?” Do I really trust in God’s care for me and my family? What unmerited gift have I recently received?

Reflections by Peter Knox SJ

Father,
We place our trust in you, particularly when the going gets tough for us. Guide us to work as though everything depends on us, and to pray as though everything depends on you.
Amen.

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