Friends, we’ve all felt lost at some point, haven’t we? Like that feeling in Disney World when you think you’ve lost your parents. It’s a terrifying feeling. But what if I told you that feeling of being lost is something we all experience spiritually? You see, we were created for a relationship with God, our Father. But sin, like a powerful current, can pull us away, leaving us feeling lost and afraid.
In Luke chapter 15, Jesus, through three powerful parables, reassures us of God’s relentless love. He tells us about a shepherd who leaves his ninety-nine sheep to find the one lost sheep, a woman who diligently searches for her lost coin, and a father who welcomes home his lost son with open arms. Each story highlights the immense joy experienced when something lost is found.
Notice how Jesus intentionally narrows the focus in these parables. We go from a ratio of 99 to 1, then 9 to 1, and finally 1 to 1. He wants us to understand that each one of us is precious to God, so much so that He leaves the ninety-nine to find the one. He rejoices over each lost soul that returns to Him.
These parables aren’t just stories; they are a glimpse into the heart of God. They remind us that no matter how far we stray, no matter how lost we may feel, our Father is always searching for us, ready to welcome us home with a love that knows no bounds. He yearns for us to turn back to Him, to experience the joy of being found. So, let us run to Him, knowing that His arms are always open wide.
