Then Jesus told them this parable: “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? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ – Luke 15:1-7
Who are you in this story? Are you the shepherd, one of the ninety-nine, or the one that is lost. I suggest that most of us have had some similar life experiences. Are you a leader? Are you a member of the insiders? Are you outside, alone, or isolated? Jesus tells this parable in response to the leaders of church degrading him for hanging out with the “wrong people”. Who is the church labeling the “wrong people” today? Jesus challenges this thinking by showing that the one who lost (outside the circle, isolated, separated) is EXACTLY the one that we should be seeking. Is it you? Good news, Jesus loves you, and we are on the way. Is it someone you love? Good news, Jesus loves them and will send that love through you. Is it someone that you don’t know that doesn’t look like you, think like you, or believe the same things that you do? Good news, Jesus loves them and will send that love through you!
Are you staying and following the herd or are you answering the call of Jesus to leave the group and go find the one who is at risk of being swallowed up by pain, darkness, and isolation? Do you see anyone near you that desperately needs love? Will they be the next one to receive it and will you be the messenger? I pray that you will.
Let us pray: Lord, give me the courage and strength to leave the safety of my small circle and to see the one who appears lost. Let me see them with your eyes that are inclusive and affirming. Prepare the way, the words, and the divine appointment that I may carry your love to them. Let us all celebrate that another is rescued from a life of separation, in Jesus’ name, amen.