Reflection:  ‘Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.’ Luke 12:32 New International Version (NIV)

There’s a crowd of thousands. They could be sheep for all their blind milling about. The Good Shepherd tells them a story, and like good sheep they settle down to listen. It’s a story about a stupid sheep – a rich, greedy fool who cares only about himself; stockpiling just to fill his own belly. Oh, he’s banqueting alright, but not at the king’s table. There’s no place for him, ever, at the King’s table. Well, that’s confronting…even for sheep! The shepherd then strokes the sheep near him. He fondles an ear here, uplifts a snout there and in undertones inaudible to the crowd at large, affirms his consummate care. Oh, don’t worry little flock. Your heavenly Father just delights in treating you royally.

We’re given everything – the whole kingdom. Lavish goodness and mercy. Super abundance … right now … full and running over…like a royal wedding dress train. That’s the flow of the language here and that’s the sentiment of our gospel inheritance in Christ.

Prayer:  In your merciful love, heavenly Father, draw many lost sheep into your flock that they may know your salvation and your lavish kindness.  Let all who take refuge in You…sing joyful praises forever…For You bless the godly, O LORD; You surround them with Your shield of love. (Psalm 5:11-12)