What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-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.
Luke 15:4-7 NKJV
Remember the week the police returned Elizabeth Smart to her parents. There was much rejoicing across our nation. I even saw “They Found Elizabeth” posters with her pictures on store windows. Shanin called me from work to let me know. She was excited for the girl and her family. I shared in the joy of the moment. I can only imagine how her father must have felt as he told reporters, “It’s REAL!”
This real-life event demonstrates an underlying spiritual truth. There is joy in finding something lost. God’s joy in saving sinners is reflected in the world He created. Spiritually we need to be like the Smart family. Never give up on any one who seems hopelessly lost. Despite all the statistics and well meant advice the Smarts never quit believing Elizabeth would come home. We need to apply that same kind of hope to our neighbors who haven’t yet met Jesus. The patrols of heaven are out looking for all those who are separated from the Father. Like the folks who called the police we need to pray for those who we know have been kidnapped by our enemy.
When they turn to the Father in Jesus we need to let them know, “It’s REAL!” The heavenly celebration needs to include us. We are part of heaven’s kingdom. When our family is increased we REJOICE with our Father.
Rejoicing In Return,
Pastor Jason
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