The Father's Good Pleasure

Jesus said to his disciples, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:32-34

Do not be afraid, little flock. I hear these gentle words of Jesus and welcome the next line: It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Not a begrudging allowance, not a favor curried, but the pleasure and delight of God to give me the joy of the kingdom.

Remembering the delight of God is a place to return to in prayer. You’ve probably heard me quote the Jesuit Anthony de Mello: “Behold God beholding you … and smiling!” Contemplating God as a deeply joyful creator—the very source of love—is an inviting way to reorient ourselves. Assured of God’s unfailing love, we lose our fear and hesitation and can more readily live from a posture of love toward others. Lord, open our lips, and our mouths shall proclaim your praise!

Today, I’m struck not only by the sense of God’s “good pleasure” toward us but also by the image of God with a gift to give, giddy and knowing how this gift will bring goodness to the one who receives it.

My sister is a natural gift-giver, with a thoughtful attention to the recipient and a knack for finding just the right little thing to bring a smile. The artsy little measuring cups she gave me years ago still make me happy, bringing a bit of beauty into the kitchen task at hand. You can likely also think of gifts you’ve been given over the years that still give joy.

As a giver, when you find something that you know will be enjoyed, there is such a lovely feeling of anticipation and pleasure in seeing that the recipient appreciates it—finding it beautiful, useful, amusing, or moving. That sweet spot requires knowing the person we’re giving to, as well as the risk of choosing something on their behalf. A sure thing and a hope.

I’ll savor that today—the image of God knowing me fully, and happily anticipating my delight when I fully receive the kingdom being given at every moment.