LOST and FOUND

[Readings for today - Luke Chapters 15-16]

Chapter 15 is packed with profound parables:  "The Lost Sheep," "The Lost Coin," and "the Lost Son."  What's the running theme?  Answer:  Something, or someone is LOST!!!

Notice that the sinners and tax collectors (the LEAST favorite people in their day) were drawn to Jesus.  The religious leaders (the Pharisees and scribes), kept their distance and voiced their discontent.  So Jesus wisely spoke in story-form (parables) to them.

Religious people wouldn't associate with those who would not adhere to their rules and religious way of life whereas Jesus would accept and minister to ANYONE who desired to listen to Him or draw near to Him.  

Many so-called Christians today hide behind their doctrines and denominational walls--keeping others out.  But Jesus tells us to GO OUT and seek the LOST and bring them IN.

In each story, something was found that was LOST.  In each story there was REJOICING over that which was LOST.    

The Pharisees correspond to the 99 sheep, the 9 coins, and the elder brother.  The tax collectors and sinners correspond to the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son.

The legalistic, self-righteous Pharisees were not even aware of their NEED.  Sheep that are LOST lie down helplessly--realizing they have a NEED... and the Shepherd hears their cry.

Many are LOST...many are crying out for someone to "draw near" to them--to "reach out" to them--to "lift them up" and show compassion upon them.  Who can you touch today?  How will they see Jesus today in YOU?