Listen

Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose someone among you had one hundred sheep and lost one of them. Wouldn’t he leave the other ninety-nine in the pasture and search for the lost one until he finds it? And when he finds it, he is thrilled and places it on his shoulders. When he arrives home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Celebrate with me because I’ve found my lost sheep.’ In the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who changes both heart and life than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need to change their hearts and lives.”

Luke 15:3-7

Think

This parable always bothered me. Maybe I just don’t know about shepherding, but why would anyone in their right mind leave 99 sheep to go after one? What if there was an issue with a wolf or an enemy showing up to attack the herd? The entire football team’s defense does not go after the quarterback, right?

I have two thoughts about what this parable means. First, as in the case of the one sheep, God searches for each who is lost, rejoices when we are found, and celebrates our repentance. That’s great! If you are lost, God is seeking you and will rejoice when you change your heart and life.

But at the same time, if I were going after a single sheep, I would make sure that the other 99 were safe before I left. Likewise, I believe God is making sure you are ok, even when you haven’t strayed at all. So take heart, God is watching over you like a shepherd cares for a flock.

You are safe and you are loved.

Andy Hart

Pray

God, thank you for looking for me. I also rejoice that I am safe as you watch over me. Amen.

Go

God is searching.

Be Found!

Be Transformed!