Gospel

Luke 12:1-7

At that time:

So many people were crowding together

that they were trampling one another underfoot.

Jesus began to speak, first to his disciples,

"Beware of the leaven–that is, the hypocrisy–of the Pharisees.

"There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed,

nor secret that will not be known.

Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness

will be heard in the light,

and what you have whispered behind closed doors

will be proclaimed on the housetops.

I tell you, my friends,

do not be afraid of those who kill the body

but after that can do no more.

I shall show you whom to fear.

Be afraid of the one who after killing

has the power to cast into Gehenna;

yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one.

Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins?

Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God.

Even the hairs of your head have all been counted.

Do not be afraid.

You are worth more than many sparrows.”

Reflection

It's interesting that Jesus is speaking here to the disciples, and you wonder what went through their mind. He's saying that you have to be careful about those who are going to resist you and your work. But don't be afraid if they kill you, because even though they might do that, they can never harm you. You are in the care of the God who created you.

He knows you. He will not let anything happen to you, that is not for you. This may have been the beginning of the disciples finally realizing how dangerous their ministry would become.

Closing Prayer

Father, we worry about so many things. We often we even worry about whether or not we are going to be accepted when we die. But over and over again, you have said to so many, to all of us, nothing can separate you from the love of God. When you intend, when you struggle, when you work, longing for connection with him, you have nothing to fear. You will always be with him forever. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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