Luke 15:1-7 (NIV) 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.
It has been said that the surest way to find something is to buy its replacement. That happened to me with a test meter. I finally bought the test meter I always wanted and misplaced it after a project. It was “lost” for 6 months. I needed to have one so I went on eBay and bought one similar to replace it. Shortly after, I was cleaning up my workshop and found the original. Boy was I happy! That which was lost in now found.
Who or what have you lost? Or is it you that feels lost and alone? You don’t have to remain in those feelings. Some people may not even realize they are lost. They know something is missing but they are not really sure what it is. Do you feel something may be missing in your life? Jesus came to seek that which was lost. But more than just seek, He came to redeem that which was lost. Our’s is a lost world. Communication is diminishing. People don’t talk to each other, they text. We get so caught up in all our own things that we don’t notice others. Relationships suffer. Many in busy metropolitan areas are lonely.
Relationships are of primary importance to God. He created this universe to facilitate fellowship with us. Relationships would restore what was lost. Do you want to be found? Do you have a relationship with Jesus? Does He call you friend? He is looking for you. He wants to build a relationship that can redeem that which was and is lost. There will be celebration in heaven for each relationship that is restored. Oh that there would be celebration over you or one of yours!
What is the blessing here? You were not made to be alone. You were made to be in relationship and the primary relationship is with Your Creator. He stands close by ready to redeem and restore you. He wants to be your friend. He longs to bless you holding you in the center of His will. Will you let him? He is even willing to hang out with sinners like you and me.
Lord, thank You that You care for us so much that You come searching for us. You said that we are Your sheep and You are our Shepherd. As our Shepherd, guide us in Your ways. Lead us in Your pastures, beside still waters and restore our souls. Amen!