Joy Over One

Joy Over One

Bible Reading: Luke 15:3-7

Focus verse: "In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!"  Luke 15:7

What would cause a sheep to be led astray?  There could be distractions of the world or just the natural wandering.  Whatever the cause, the sheep is lost.  The shepherd loves the sheep and will put all effort in seeking out the one that is lost.  He will leave the 99 at home and search.  When the lost sheep is found, he will lovingly carry the sheep on his shoulder and call his friends to rejoice.  

Jesus taught this parable to help us understand how much God, our shepherd, loves us.  God sent Jesus to seek and save those that are lost. (Luke 19:10)  God loves us and does not abandon us when our world grows dark and dim.  

Do you feel like you are one of the 99 or the lost one?  If you are with God as the 99, then there was a day that you were the one that was lost and Jesus found you.   If I am part of the 99, I am resting in His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.  I am listening to Him and obeying Him every day.  I am turning left or right and doing His will. 

If you are lost, you can be found.  Hear the voice of the shepherd calling?  Return to Him and answer Him in a prayer.

There is JOY over one who repents and returns to God!
~Page Johnson
Interlocking Ministries