It is often said that human anxiety is a by-product of our deep-rooted sense of independence cultivated across generations and cultures. In our time, anxiety affects all levels of contemporary society. People feel overwhelmed by various concerns – work stress, financial instability and relationship struggles, to name a few. For some, anxiety becomes a constant feeling, persisting even when no immediate stressor or threat is apparent. Our scripture readings today seem to talk about the antidote or even antidotes to anxiety.

First of all, Luke encourages us to loosen our grip on control. He shifts our attention to God who sustains life and provides even for creatures who cannot provide for themselves (12:27-28). Our God knows our needs and meets them accordingly (12:29-31). There are many things that are truly beyond our control, and recognizing this truth allows us to surrender our worries and bring our concerns before God. A life devoted to seeking God’s kingdom will not be consumed by anxiety over material things (12:32-34).

Luke takes a very pragmatic approach, presenting us with a clear choice: we can either invest in wealth and earthly possessions – things that can be lost, stolen or worn out – or we can store up treasure in heaven, which is secure and inexhaustible because it is sealed with God. Only the second choice offers a true antidote to anxiety.

This challenges us to reflect: Where does our true commitment lie? Is it rooted in earthly pursuits or in the eternal? The answer to this question shapes not only our priorities but also our sense of security. Jesus makes it clear that security is not found in wealth or material possessions but in God’s provision and in the work of building up his kingdom. But what does it really mean to build up God’s kingdom?

Luke illustrates the concept of the kingdom with a direct call to sell one’s possessions and give alms (12:33) followed by a parable (12:35-40) that urges its hearers to be watchful, vigilant and committed to the Master.

Jesus’ language of selling possessions and giving alms, although radical, is particularly relevant for our materialistic society. It serves as a warning to God’s people to be extra vigilant about the hold that possessions can have on us. As Christ’s disciples we cannot simply have it all while others go hungry. Such an imbalance is not only unjust but contrary to the heart of the Gospel. Generosity, hospitality, sharing, and serving – these are treasures of heaven. Moreover, when we provide for the needs of others and loosen our grip on materialism, we experience a deeper joy and a freedom that lifts our hearts and minds.

The parable exhorts the listeners to watchfulness and accountability of their lives before God. Servants need to be devoted to Jesus and the kingdom tasks entrusted to us as his followers. The faithfulness of the disciples comes with privileges, rewards and responsibilities. While God’s mercy allows for the disciples’ ongoing journey of learning of what is expected from them, they are also held accountable for losing sight of their commitment and failing to trust in him.

The author of Hebrews explains the idea of commitment and trust under the umbrella of ‘faith’ recalling the Biblical heroes of faith (11:1-3, 8-16). People of faith are both forward and upward looking. They are hopeful because the God they serve is faithful to his promises, regardless of the passing of time or seemingly hopeless circumstances. This vision of faith empowers people to continue their walk with God through both good and difficult times.

Faith brings into reality both the unseen, transcendent world above and the promised future of God’s kingdom, making tangible what is hoped for (11:1). It empowers believers to live in contrast to the dominant culture, which often values only what is immediately visible and tangible. True faith calls us to trust in God’s greater reality, even when it contradicts superficial appearances. This connection between present faith and future fulfilment is illuminated through the testimony of those who have gone before us – the great cloud of witnesses whose lives exemplify unwavering trust in God. Their stories serve as both an encouragement and a challenge, reminding us that faith is not merely belief but a way of life that shapes our actions, priorities and ultimate hope. For all those who walked the path of faith then, and for all who journey in faith today, God has prepared his eternal city (11:10, 16), God’s own dwelling place, where they will find true rest and share in the fullness of his glory.