Jesus' Little Flock

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Nineteenth Week :  Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:32-48 or 12:35-40*

*First Reading : Wis 18:6-9*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22*

*Second Reading - Heb 11:1-2, 8-19 or 11:1-2, 8-12*

*Jesus' Little Flock*

*1) Who is the “little flock”?*

*A) The Disciples*: Primarily, Jesus is addressing His disciples—a small group of followers who had chosen to walk away from worldly security to follow Him.

These are not the powerful, wealthy, or influential, but those who have left everything for the kingdom.

*B) All Believers:* More broadly, the “little flock” represents all those who trust in Christ. 

They are "little" in number, influence, and worldly power, especially in the face of persecution and opposition. 

Yet, they are the ones to whom the kingdom is given.

*2) Why call them a “little flock”?*

*A) “Little”*: Reflects humility, weakness, vulnerability. 

Believers may seem small or insignificant in the eyes of the world,  but they are greatly loved by God.

*B) “Flock”* : Implies pastoral care. Jesus often uses the shepherd-sheep imagery (John 10) to describe His relationship with His people. 

A flock is something a shepherd protects, guides, and lays down His life for.

Together, *“little flock”* conveys both the humility of the believers and the intimate, protective care of the Good Shepherd.

*3) The Little Flock in a World of Fear*

Our world is saturated with fear:

Fear of war, economic collapse, climate change.

Fear of loneliness, irrelevance, or being forgotten.

Fear in the Church: declining numbers, persecution, apathy.

The *“little flock”* today may feel overwhelmed, marginalized, or powerless. But Jesus’ words in context is very important for us

*“Do not be afraid…”"*

This is not an ordinary thought, but a call to trust in a deeper reality—God is still present, still in control, and still delights to give us the kingdom.

*4) Smallness is Not Failure*

Today, Christians often feel *“little”* in size, influence, or strength—especially in secular societies where faith is sidelined or mocked. 

But Scripture repeatedly shows how God works through the small:

A mustard seed (Luke 13:19),

A few loaves and fishes (John 6)

Being a *“little flock”* doesn’t mean being forgotten or forsaken—it means being chosen, known, and shepherded by the Lord Himself.

*5) Fear Is Replaced by Identity and Security*

Jesus does not say, *“Be strong, big flock.”* He says:

You are little (acknowledging weakness),

You are a flock (under His care),

You belong to the Father, and

You are being given a kingdom.

This gives believers today a secure identity that transcends external chaos. You don’t need to be in control, because the Shepherd is.

*6) How the Little Flock should behave?*

*A) Live Generously*

“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out...”

The little flock is to hold earthly things loosely, investing instead in eternal treasures.

*B) Keep Watchful and Ready* The flock must live with spiritual alertness, anticipating Christ’s return with readiness, faithfulness, and vigilance.

*C) Be Faithful Stewards* The flock is called to faithful, responsible service—not passive waiting, but active obedience.

*D) The Servants with Lamps Burning* A picture of readiness. Like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding, they

*E) The Thief in the Night* The little flock must not be complacent. Spiritual laziness makes one vulnerable

*F) The Faithful vs. Unfaithful Servant* The Little Flock Should remain like a faithful servant, knowing that more we have received from God, and greater our responsibility

*7) Final Encouragement*

Being the little flock today may feel discouraging—but in God’s eyes, it is a place of honor and intimacy.

You are not forgotten. You are not alone. You are led by the Good Shepherd.

So do not be afraid, little flock. The world may be shaking, but the kingdom is unshakable. The Shepherd still speaks, and the Father still gives.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*