Lost Sheep

Now all the tax-collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, ‘This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.’ So he told them this parable: ‘Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.” Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance. ‘Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, “Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.” Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’ Luke 15:1-10

Jesus used parables or picture stories to help people see what was right in front of them. Somehow, the religious leaders of the day were unable to see the need around them and even ridiculed Jesus for caring for and welcoming the lost sheep. We live in a time when our leaders cannot see what's right in front of them as well. Jesus is very clear about who he looks for day and night, and who he seeks despite the world's rejection. We are all lost sheep from time to time. I for one am grateful that there is no dress code, no wealth expectations and no color barriers in God's reign. Those who we have set aside, those who are different and begging for help today are being sought by Jesus. 

Welcoming Creator, you make a place for everyone

you do not see our poverty, our difference and our isolation

as something that can separate us from you eternal love.

We pick teams, swear loyalty and like to turn our backs

on those who don't fit the mold and those who aren't welcome

yet these are the ones you seek out every night and day.

Open our eyes to those who need our help and support today

help us build tables that can expand to include everyone

and make us ever grateful for you, Lord Jesus, who seeks out lost sheep. Amen.