Luke 12:1-7 (NIV 2011)
1 Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3 What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.
4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Reflection:
Similarly to how in Chapter 20 Jesus warned his disciples to not be like the scribes, who love to be seen and honored by men, Jesus warned his disciples to not be like the Pharisees, who put on a show of religion.
The phrases “beware” (in Luke 20:46) and “be on your guard” are strong ones.
Verses 6-7 speaks of God’s care for those who are seen and noticed by Him. As we fear God instead of fearing or wanting to impress those around us, He sees us and knows us. Every hair on our head is known to Him.
Response:
Let’s thank the God who knows us inside and out. He knows all of our thoughts; He has numbered all the hairs on our heads. It is this God who sees us. May we turn away from fearing the world or wanting to impress others, and instead turn our hearts to worship the One who knows us so well. As we do this, may we experience His freedom from the fears and worries of this world.
