“Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:7 ESV).
Luke 15 has three “lost” parables in a row: The lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost prodigal son. The verse above is from the parable of the lost sheep. Jesus taught the importance of seeking the lost, which Israel had forgotten. They had become inward focused and self-absorbed.
Today’s church can be like this. The focus tends to be on keeping the “ninety-nine” members happy and meeting their needs. But the mission of the church must always focus outward in order to help rescue the one. If we want our churches to experience the “joy of heaven,” we will get out of our comfort zones, take our eyes off ourselves, and put them on seeking the lost.
PRAYER: Dear Father, forgive us for our inward focus, for our seeking of comfort, rather than seeking the lost. For we know You have commanded us to go and make disciples of all nations. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to seek the lost. In Jesus’ name, amen.