"Lost is Found"

N.T.#596 "Lost is Found"

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. (verse 7)

LET IT GLOW

What the Pharisees and scribes hated about Jesus was He spent time and ate with those whom they despised: tax collectors and sinners. As far as the religious leaders were concerned, such people were to be avoided-not welcomed. They thought Jesus should be hanging out with religious people who were serious about keeping the law. (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

So Jesus gave 3 scenarios using parables. The first two were similar, that of something being lost-a sheep and a coin. Wo wouldn't look for things you felt important whenever lost? I do it all the time at my age. Sometimes I even ask the Lord to help me find it. And He does. 

More importantly, look at verse 7. When straying saints and lost sinners repent, their relationship with the Father is restored and heaven rejoices. That must be some kind of party! I want to be in on it, too. 

The Lord goes to great lengths to see salvation and restoration take place in a sinners life. Do we? (Evans)

LET IT GROW 

Have you ever had a Prodigal son or daughter? It hurts to have them stray away from you and your teachings. When you know they have gone down the wrong road, but you can't seem to get them on the right road. Yet the father in the story did not give up. He rejoiced when seeing his wayward son return home. 

Why did the younger son leave? He wanted to live on his own, which ended up squandering his inheritance after all was said and done. 

Where your treasure is there your heart will be also. (12:34)

The young guy had a heart problem. Yet, when he became desperate enough, the guy returned home. He knew what to do, but had to humble himself in the process. Did he learn his lesson? We hope so. 

LET IT GO

Jesus, keep us near the cross; there a precious fountain. 

Free to all a healing stream, flows from Calvary's mountain.

Thank you Jesus for accepting us back into the fold when we stray away from You.