In a world that often feels like a hamster wheel of repetitive struggles, Jesus offers us a different perspective. His words in Luke 12 remind us that we’re not caught in an endless cycle but are on a purposeful journey with a definite destination.
Are We Stuck in a Cycle of Confusion?
The Temptations’ 1970 hit “Ball of Confusion” described a world of racial tensions, political promises, social unrest, and constant turmoil. Remarkably, 55 years later, these same issues continue to plague our society:
“People moving out, people moving in. Why? Because of the color of their skin… An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. You vote for me and I’ll set you free.”
This cyclical nature of human problems can make us feel trapped, leading us to believe that this world is all there is. We fall into patterns and habits that become our normal, even when they don’t align with our faith.
What Does Jesus Say About Our Worries?
Jesus addresses this directly in Luke 12:32: “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
This powerful statement reveals something profound – we are blessed on purpose. God doesn’t bless us because we deserve it, but because it pleases Him to do so. This blessing isn’t just about material comfort but about receiving the kingdom itself.
How Should We Respond to God’s Blessings?
Jesus continues with challenging words in verse 33: “Sell what you have and give alms. Provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys.”
This isn’t about forcing poverty upon believers. Rather, Jesus is teaching us to be rich in the right things – rich in our love and trust of Him. God doesn’t want us clinging so tightly to material possessions that we’re unwilling to listen when He’s offering heavenly wealth.
Where Is Your Heart Focused?
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34). This isn’t just a catchy saying but a profound truth about human nature. Whatever we value most will guide our hearts and actions.
If money is your most important thing, your heart will be guided to acquire and hoard more of it. If relationships with family members take precedence over your relationship with God, you risk creating an imbalanced spiritual life where God isn’t at the center.
Are You Ready for Christ’s Return?
Jesus uses the analogy of servants waiting for their master’s return from a wedding (verses 35-40). These servants are so eager for their master’s return that they’re ready to open the door before he even knocks.
How many of us wait with that kind of anticipation for Jesus? We’ll eagerly await the next sports tournament, TV show, or movie release, but do we approach our spiritual lives with the same excitement?
The promise Jesus makes is astounding – if we’re found faithfully watching and waiting, He will serve us! “Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching… he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them” (verse 37).Why Don’t We Know When Jesus Will Return?
Jesus warns that He will come “at an hour you do not expect” (verse 40). This uncertainty isn’t meant to frighten us but to keep us vigilant and focused on our purpose.
We’re called to live each moment as if Jesus could return in the next, not out of fear but out of joyful expectation. We don’t know when He’s coming back, but we live with the confidence that He will fulfill His promise.
What Is the Purpose of God’s Blessings?
God blesses us for two reasons:
For our enjoyment – “It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom”
For His purpose – to equip us for the work of reaching others for His kingdom
We’ve been reconciled on purpose, remade on purpose, revived on purpose, and blessed on purpose. God has a plan and is moving us toward a destination, providing everything we need along the way.
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to be found ready and waiting for Christ’s return. Live as someone who is expectantly watching for Jesus, door already open before the trumpet even finishes sounding.
Ask yourself:
What am I treasuring most in my life right now? Does it align with eternal values?
How excited am I about being in God’s presence compared to other things I look forward to?
In what ways am I using God’s blessings to bless others and advance His kingdom?
If Jesus returned today, would He find me faithfully watching and working?
Remember that you are blessed not just to enjoy the blessing but to share it with others who need to experience God’s love. Live with the confidence that you’re not caught in a “ball of confusion” but are on a purposeful journey with a glorious destination.