Devotion:
Read Luke 15:3-7.
The parable begins with a straying sheep. A sheep that leaves its shepherd is defenseless and in danger. In this parable Jesus is teaching that any person apart from him is lost. His sins keep him from God and leaves him groping aimlessly in darkness. The shepherd in the story, however, didn’t despise his straying sheep. Jesus, with great compassion, also values each sinner. The parable gives no indication of the shepherd ever scolding the sheep. Instead, he hoists the sheep upon his shoulders and takes it home. An adult sheep may weigh anywhere from 110 to 125 pounds, so it would have created a physical burden for him to carry it. Jesus bore the weight of our sins upon the cross. Then the shepherd calls his friends and neighbors and invites them to rejoice with him. Similarly, heaven rejoices when a sinner repents and is restored to fellowship with God. God does not want even one person to be left out or lost. God seeks a relationship with every person. Let’s remember: Jesus is the Good Shepherd who tenderly searches for sinners and then joyfully forgives them.
Personal Worship Option:
Thank God for seeking you when you stray into the darkness. Thank him for his great compassion he shows by forgiving you and loving you.
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