Sara's Favorite Bible Verse

Thursday, June 07, 2012 Posted by Sara

It was evening and we had gathered again. A common occurrence for us, for sure, but this time was different. It would be the last time we'd share a meal and laughter for a while. Our ministry team in Cairo, Illinois had grown so close. We'd spent nearly everyday together for four years, praying, worshiping, loving on people and breaking bread, all Acts 2 style. In a few mornings three of us would be loading up our vehicles and driving five days west - to California. A very special season was coming to a close.

Sharon, one of my "spiritual moms", drew away and returned with small boxes for each of us. I knew what was inside. My heart raced. Opening the small box I saw a silver ring. Around its edges were Hebrew letters, that spelled out the verse I had requested:

"Fear not, little flock, it is the Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Luke 12:32

We had each been asked to find a verse that was meaningful for us concerning our time in Cairo. I'd been stuck on this verse since the beginning of my Cairo adventure. I loved how Jesus refers to his disciples as his "little flock" - a small band of believers. He encourages them by sharing how God desires to give them the Kingdom- they who may feel so small. It's God's delight to do so. It encourages my heart that God loves to gather his people together and give them access to the Kingdom. Sharon exhorted us as we left that we were to take what God had done in us and bring it to others wherever God takes us. I look at my ring everyday, remembering God's faithfulness in building community in my life and giving us the Kingdom.

Last week I had a special opportunity to pass this verse along to 22 third graders. I made them necklaces, imprinting my ring around the edges. I told them about my ring and how I wanted to build family wherever I went, and see how Jesus would show up in the midst. It was their turn now. I encouraged them that as they left my classroom, they were to take the love God had poured out and give it freely to others - to let others know they could be a part of the family too - and that God was delighted to give us the Kingdom, no matter how small our flock was.

May you too be encouraged. It is the Fathers good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. Pssst. Pass it on.