Luke 12:32 (NRSV) Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
An old high school friend and retired pastor told me that various renderings of the phrase “fear not” occur 365 times over the entire course of the Bible—that’s one “fear not” for each day of the year. It probably makes good sense to start each day by reminding ourselves of this message from God.
Here in Luke, Jesus is telling us that we are part of the family, his flock, and that it is a joy for God to give us the kingdom. Jesus is not telling us that we must earn a place in God’s commonwealth. He is not saying that we have to adhere to some doctrine, go to synagogue every sabbath, follow some strict set of rules and regulations, or even be good to be a part of his family and enjoy life in the realm of the Almighty.
Jesus is telling us not to worry; God wants us in the kingdom. It is where we belong. Jesus is calling his flock home. Fear not.
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