God's Mission
Luke 15:1-7
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Pondering Point
The sheep is lost but then is found. Throughout the story its value remains the same. The shepherd’s joy that shows in finding the lost sheep is matched by the love exhibited in seeking it. “I once was lost, but now am found” cries the thankful songwriter and the countless others who have sung the lyric over the years. Though people end up in places they never intend to be, their value to the Good Shepherd remains the same. That goes for all of us: You; me; every person we see – and the ones we so easily overlook. The Lord’s loves all people – and the Lord rejoices over his people, particularly those who, having been previously lost, are once again found. The Lord rejoices over you as one of His own – precious to Him.
Prayer Prompt
Go along with the language of Jesus’ parable. Whether as a sheep or a child or even as an adult, picture yourself being picked up by Jesus and carried on His shoulders. In your mind’s eye, where is He coming to find you? What is Jesus’ facial expression? What might His eyes convey to you? Explore how it feels to be picked up and made safe. What are you thinking? Consider journaling your experience for later reading and sharing if desired.