Wednesday, August 6, 2025  

Today's Scripture
Luke 12:32–40

“Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. “Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. “But know this: if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.” (NRSV)

Reflection

Do not be afraid, fear not, do not be anxious, do not fear. A variation of “be not afraid” appears approximately seventy times in the Bible. For something to be repeated that many times, God knows that it is in our human fragility to fear, be anxious and dismayed.

If you asked people what is the thing they fear most — I have asked several in the last week — it is never a dramatic moment or a sudden tragedy. It is most often the anguish of watching someone you love suffer and knowing there is nothing to be done. You can’t walk away. Love brings you back, as difficult as it may be.

This is the kind of love, and more, that God has for me. God is continuous in God’s love. No matter how often I falter, God continues to love me and doesn’t leave. God loves me so much that God has promised me God’s kingdom. I need not fear.

Now what can I give in return?

Prayer

Lord, your love for me is my greatest treasure. Calm my fears, teach me to trust, and strengthen my faith so I know and feel your love, patience, and support. Guide me in using my earthly treasures to work for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Written by Linda Gibboney, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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