Today’s Bible reading

Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.  – Luke 15:3-7

More thoughts for meditation

My young nephews remind me of the joy of being found. They want to play hide-and-seek over and over and over. They especially never seem to get tired of that moment of discovery when I look behind the couch or under the rug and find them waiting there in excited anticipation. There are smiles and squeals of joy all around.

When grownups hide, I’m not sure it’s in hopeful anticipation anymore because we’re not sure anyone will look for us. We might not even be able to describe our whereabouts, and it might feel easier to not be found. But the Good Shepherd understands, and never gets tired of looking for us. She also doesn’t give up on the search. We won’t be punished for our wandering, either; God is always delighted to find and receive us again.

Suggestions for action

Let yourself be “seen” by Jesus right now. Where are you? What’s going on? Let him help you sort it out. Candi Staton’s beautiful version of the hymn might help you. The Good Shepherd wants to find you wherever you are, and carry you home to safety.