In the parables of the lost coin, lost sheep, and lost son, we see that there is a pattern of leaving off from the secure majority in order to focus attention on the one who is lost.
It’s a pattern we Christians sometimes have a problem with. We, like the older brother in Luke 15, respond harshly to the kingdom’s display of extravagant joy over the lost soul who is found and returned to fellowship. We act as if the prodigal has been given special treatment, forgetting that we ourselves also were rescued from the kingdom of darkness and given an inheritance in the kingdom of God.
Or, like the ninety-nine sheep, we may see our shepherd leave us on our own as he pursues the one who has gone wayward. We may want to ask, What about me? Why don’t you ask me how I’m doing?, rather than being grateful for our position in Christ, and being concerned for the fate of our lost brother or sister.
Luke 15 advises us that our response should be in line with the responses of the searchers who found what was lost. Rejoice! Be glad! Celebrate! Follow heaven’s example, where even angels rejoice over a sinner who repents.
Happy Tuesday! Let's celebrate the new souls that will join the kingdom of God today!
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