All too often we hear that God is the eternal and final judge of all and that we will stand before Him on judgment day giving an account for every sin we’ve ever committed. We hear about God bringing discipline upon us, allowing bad things to happen in our world and lives. We hear that those who reject Him will be thrown into hell to suffer forever. While some of this is true, we rarely hear that God is a God of deep personal love and desires to bless us every day. The Bible, God’s love letter to us, says He has come to seek and save that which was lost, and He doesn’t want anyone to die eternally.
The parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7) is an illustration of God’s true nature and how He feels about you. It’s about a flock of 100 sheep being cared for by a shepherd. As is the nature of sheep to become lost or go astray, this shepherd was very concerned about each sheep. He notices one was missing but has safely kept 99. What does the shepherd do? He leaves the 99 in the safe custody of a hired man and he personally looks and searches for the one that is lost until he finds it. When he does, he gently picks it up and carries it home tending to any injuries it may have. Then He calls His friends and neighbors to rejoice and celebrate over the fact that he found and rescued one lost sheep.
What do you think the relationship was between the shepherd and the sheep? How do you think the sheep felt when it was found and carried home by the shepherd?
Now, put yourself in the place of the lost sheep and Jesus as the shepherd. How does God see you and feel about you?
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way:
Sunday 9, 9:00 Morning worship. Sermon: No Favoritism. Acts 10:34-48
Tuesday 11, Deacon Meeting 5:45, Council 6:30
Funeral for Harold Nyhus Friday 14, 11:00. Visitation 10-11:00 at the church.
