The Good Shepherd Looks for Us...

...Until He Finds Us.
Have you believed the lie that you are of no value to God? Let's to go back to the Bible again and read what Jesus Himself has to say about the subject. We're in Luke Chapter 15:

"What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the niney-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' 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."

We can identify with the lost sheep in this parable because we have all wandered from the flock at one time or another. We wander because we are attracted to an area where the shepherd is not leading. We might be lured by the looks of the lush grass or the cool shade tree. Just like Eve, we are first tempted to believe a lie, and then we forget about the One Who loves us, and finally, we cannot find our way back on our own. But wait, the main focus of the story isn't the sheep! Instead, let us concentrate on the Man Who is the Good Shepherd. The Shepherd leaves the ninety-nine sheep so He can rescue the straying one. He looks for him, finds him, and carries him home on His shoulders. In fact, notice the pleasure He takes in bringing back that lost lamb. He truly rejoices in His treasure and even calls to friends and family to join in the celebration.

As we apply this great teaching to our own lives, we realize that each one of us is of great value to the Lord. He wants us back. He wants us to reject the lie that has deceived, and He wants us to walk in His Truth. He knows that when we return, we are able to enjoy fellowship with Him and with our brothers and sisters once again.

May you find tremendous comfort in the Truth of God's Word.

Love, Karen