Found It!

Readings: Isaiah 12:1-6, Luke 15:1-10, I Peter 5:6-11

Losing things is no fun; finding things is pure joy. For every person who's ever lost something somewhere around the house, it can be an exercise in frustration. When we do finally find that lost item, we feel almost humbled while, at the same time, exuberant.

There are two parables in Luke that celebrate the feeling of finding the lost. In the first, that of the lost sheep, Jesus shares how diligently a good shepherd will look for one lost sheep among a flock of 100. He equates making sure that all of the flock are safe and sound to the search for all sinners returning to the fold. "I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous persons who do not need to repent" (Luke 15:7).

The second parable is of the lost coin. This falls into our everyday lives of lost stuff. Jesus talks of how a person will pretty much turn a house upside down if something of material value is lost. We can all pretty much relate to that. But Christ merely used this as a "for instance"--his true interest is in our eternal lives. "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the perseverance of the angels of God over one sinner who repents" (Luke 15:10).

Lost stuff is an aggravation; a lost soul is a tragedy. It seems the world has this mixed up these days. Think of how diligently we look for lost items that will, over time, cease to exist or be of any value. Now think of the lack of diligence we pursue those who we know have not yet returned to the eternal flock. Isaiah 12:4 states, "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted."

The earthly clutter tends to override the eternal path...

I Peter gives us a pretty good instruction book on how to keep things under control on a daily basis and, thereby, keep the "clutter" out of our lives--be it material items or the way we live our lives. "Humble yourselves therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. And the God of all grace, who called you to this eternal glory, in Christ, after you have suffered a little while will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast" (5:6-8, 10).

The next time something is lost, look around...is that something receiving more attention than a someone nearby that does not yet know the love of God?

Peace be with you.