Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, This Man receives sinners and eats with them. So He spoke this parable to them, saying:
I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.
It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found. Luke 15:1-2,7,10,32
Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Those who are already ‘found’, sometimes forget that this is the great priority of God. Jesus reminded the religious leaders of His day that heaven rejoices over one sinner who is found. He illustrated it so brilliantly by calling the attention of his hearers to three parables. Each escalate the value of what was found. A lost sheep, a precious keepsake coin, and lastly a son. Sometimes in the church we can lose that fervor. We should ask ourselves, have we lost something? Namely, the compassion of God.
How tender is my heart toward the lost? What effort and I making to participate in God’s saving work in the world? When did I last share the gospel or invite someone to church?
God, I am so glad that my friends wanted me to be found and that they extended an invitation to me. Help me see the lost world today and be part of fulfilling Your great priority in the world today.
