“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Lk 12:32).
A small flock? If we consider the number of Catholics worldwide, the figures include hundreds of millions of people belonging to the Catholic Church. From that point of view, it would be a “large flock.” However, if we look more closely and take into account that many baptized persons do not strive to live a truly committed Catholic life, the flock is significantly reduced. Unfortunately, it seems to be getting smaller and smaller because of the neglect of God and the worldliness of our Church. So, in the end, it may be a “small flock” compared to the universal call addressed to all men without exception.
This small flock does not find it easy to defend itself against the tide of the world. It must be able to say “no” to the seductions it presents. It must be able to separate itself from everything that endangers its faith. At times it will feel like a stranger, because, due to its faith, it cannot and will not join in with what is customary in the world.
It is a “small flock,” but one that has been given the promise of the true Kingdom, which does not consist of gold or silver, false admiration, or foolish vanity. Instead, it grants joy and peace to the soul. It is adorned with the true gold of love for God and lives in truth. From its intimate union with God, true love for one’s neighbor springs forth like a wonderful flower. Our Father never ceases to shower His goodness on the soul in which He has established His Kingdom and for which He Himself has prepared it.
The “little flock” may suffer mockery and contempt from those who have not yet encountered the Kingdom of God or who have lost it. But the Father’s promise remains, and that is their joy and strength.