The disciples of Jesus were relatively few in numbers but very dear to the Lord Jesus himself. For this reason, Jesus taught them clearly things that he would present to the crowd in parables. He made himself known to them and prepared them to face the scandal of the Cross which is the source of eternal life for us. “Fear not, little flock” became a statement of assurance to Jesus’ beloved small group and to their followers after Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Our parish experience in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic reveals to us that we are indeed a little flock in numbers. We feel frequented by thoughts of possible disappearance as a community of believers. We perceive our small numbers as signs of weakness. We consider the efforts of grouping parishes as though it was an organized retreat of troops from the battlefield towards surrender. But the Lord of the battle, the Victor over death, Jesus assures us that we are very dear to him. He has made us his “little flock”. God has chosen us to be citizens of his eternal kingdom; hence we need not fear any earthly enemy or power. We are called to be hopeful because God is true. Our numbers remind us of the saying ‘Many are called but few are chosen’.
The first reading from the book of Wisdom gives us an antidote to fear as the author wrote to his fellow Jews who were in Egypt. He recalls to their memories God’s great works of kindness and deliverance during the Exodus. What God did in the past should serve as a basis for hope and confidence in the present and future. Hope and faith clears fear from our minds. Our past experience with God assures us our present relationship with Him. The Letter to the Hebrews explains to us what hope and faith are for us Christians. The believer is confident that what he/she hopes for will be fulfilled for him or her. Abraham and Sarah serve as excellent examples of faith and hope that do not deceive.
In faith and hope, the believer puts one’s gifts at the service of God and Community. As a diligent and faithful steward, a Christian is called to be doing God’s works without getting lousy until the day of the Lord. Faith and hope keep us on the alert because what we hope for is greater than we can imagine. As a privileged “little flock”, we stand firm in the revealed truths and long with surety the realization of God’s promise. Meanwhile we ought to do everything lovingly. We are aware of the gifts of God to us and the requirement for us to reflect God’s presence in our world. Hence, let us radiate faith, hope and love at all times and places in the manner we live and interact with others.