By Dr. Kerry Knight, Emerald Beach Church of Christ
“Do not fear little flock, for it is your Father’s
good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
(Luke 12:32)
In the midst of Jesus giving to the multitude his beautiful message about how to deal with worry, he turns to his close disciples and says, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Imagine Jesus referring to you as a little lamb. Sheep are typically a little dumb. They seem to lose their way so easily, and can’t seem to find their way home.
Jesus is using the “sheep” illustration because we too are prone to lose our way. Temptations are often so great we feel hopeless to overcome them. And then when we do come to our senses, we can’t find how to get back into God’s good graces.
Now here is the important thing. God loves His little lambs, and He is quick to add that “we should not fear.” Next time you feel lost and alone, imagine yourself as a little lamb looking up at the Good Shepherd. He extends His hand and with his staff, he gently leads you back to safety. In Mark’s inspired story of the sinking boat, we find Jesus resting in the vessel while his disciples are frantic with worry. Jesus says, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith? Then with a calming voice, He says the simple words, “Peace be still.”
That is the Master we serve.
