Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

In the pages of Scripture, few passages resonate as profoundly as Deuteronomy 6:4–5, Luke 12:32, and Romans 14:17. Together, they weave a rich tapestry of faith, belonging, and the transformative power of God’s kingdom. In this segment, we will delve into the depths of Luke 12:32, where Jesus tenderly reassures his fragile and fearful followers, saying, “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” This statement not only nourishes the hearts of the original disciples but continues to echo in our lives today, challenging us to confront our fears and embrace God’s promises.

The Human Experience of Fear

Imagine standing in the presence of Jesus, having witnessed countless miracles, divine teachings, and acts of compassion. Yet, despite such proximity to the miracle worker, the original disciples were laden with fear and uncertainty. How often do we find ourselves paralyzed by fear, questioning our worthiness to claim our inheritance in the kingdom of God? In the fast-paced world we live in, it is easy to lose sight of our identity as heirs because we chase after transient comforts, influence, and power. We misinterpret the essence of God’s kingdom, descending into lives driven by the superficial rather than the substantive.

Understanding God’s Good Pleasure

Jesus’s words, “it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom,” are profound. The term “good pleasure” transcends mere desire—it encompasses a resolved determination that the Father delights in bestowing the kingdom upon us. This is not a reluctant afterthought; it is an affirmation rooted in the very nature of God. Sadly, many of us live as if we are outcasts, far removed from this heavenly inheritance. It raises an important question: why do we evade our rightful place as children in the kingdom?
The answer lies in our misunderstanding of what the kingdom of God truly represents. Romans 14:17 tells us that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” These qualities—righteousness, peace, and joy—are not casual attributes; they are deep, costly realities forged through surrendered lives. We tend to seek out comfort and security, mistaking them for the kingdom’s true nature. Yet, the path to righteousness is paved with trials and tribulations, grounded in faith that often defies human understanding.

The Calling to Blind Trust

Trust is an essential anchor in our journey through faith. Contrary to our desire for neat clarity and well-defined paths, God often invites us to step into the unknown—to practice blind trust. Life within God’s kingdom rarely aligns with our expectations. The initial disciples walked a narrow, rocky road alongside Jesus, often stumbling in their comprehension of His teachings and intentions. Consequently, many of us find ourselves amidst uncertainty and confusion, grappling with circumstances that challenge our understanding of God’s promises.
Walking the path of faith often mirrors a blindfolded trust walk. We may know the promises of God but sometimes miss the Person behind them. Our innate desire for control and predictability can distort our perception, leading us away from true obedience. In these moments, we must recognize that the tension felt during our faith journey is not a sign of abandonment but a vital part of God’s divine formation process. He is not merely interested in our comfort; He is focused on renewing our hearts and minds.

The Battleground of Faith

A significant battleground for believers is releasing our grip on what we hold dear—our need for certainty, clarity, and control. For me, the challenge lies in my desire for an unclouded path with visible signs of direction. However, God is calling me to lean into blind trust—a call to follow His lead. Trust requires releasing what we cling to, laying aside our fears, insecurities, and doubt at the feet of the Father. In surrendering, we begin to navigate our lives with a clear intention to hear and obey.
The Scriptures affirm that “the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to give strong support to those whose heart is fully his” (2 Chronicles 16:9). God seeks not perfection but hearts ready to listen and respond in obedience. He desires a Shema heart—one that values deep listening and courageous acting. When God finds such a heart, He acts, and His kingdom flourishes through those willing to respond.

Reflecting on Our Readiness

The question we must now grapple with is: are we prepared to adopt a Shema heart posture? Are we willing to listen deeply and respond fully, irrespective of the cost? It is essential to reflect on our readiness and commitment to God’s call. He is gentler than we often perceive—patiently urging us to trust Him in the ambiguities of life.
In this chaotic world, we may find ourselves overwhelmed by distractions and pressures. Perhaps we feel like the Israelites in the wilderness, longing for the security of Egypt while being led to the Promised Land. It is easy to forget that even in uncertainty, God is crafting a narrative of grace where righteousness, peace, and joy can flourish amid trials.

Conclusion: Embracing Our Inheritance

In conclusion, the invitation Jesus offers is not a mere suggestion; it’s a declaration of our identity as heirs of the kingdom. We must confront our fears and insecurities while embracing the courageous posture of blind trust, aware of God’s good pleasure. His kingdom is not defined by worldly measures but by our relationship with Him—by our righteousness, our peace, and our joy, all born of the Holy Spirit.
As I write this, I contemplate the things I need to release in order to step into the fullness of trust required by God. What fear or doubt is holding you back? What certainties are you clinging to that may be inhibiting your entrance into the kingdom? We are called to live with a Shema heart, ready to listen and obey. This requires not only hearing God’s voice but responding without hesitation or fear.
May we seek God daily, realigning our desires with His kingdom purposes. In doing so, we unlock the true essence of faith—a lived-out experience characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy. We are not merely invited to enter the kingdom; we are entrusted with its very essence.
So let us choose today to embody those kingdom values, rise above our fears, and make the need for blind trust our new normal. It’s time to embrace our rightful place as heirs in God’s kingdom and let the world witness the beauty and power of His Spirit alive within us. In hearing and obeying, we find the power to change not only our lives but the lives of those around us. Are you ready to take that step? The kingdom is waiting.