The Lost Sheep

The Lord came down from heaven to earth, such was His love for people.  Like a good shepherd, He helps those who are lost.  He is always glad when a lost soul returns to the flock.

When Jesus spoke, big crowds gathered.  Among the people were often many sinners and tax collectors.  Jesus spoke and ate with them, which angered the Pharisees.  The Lord, in response (в ответ), told them a parable about a lost sheep.

He asked them if there is a man who, if he loses one sheep from his flock, does not go to look for it until he finds it.  And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.  And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbours, saying to them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.” (Luke 15:5-6)

If a shepherd is so happy to find his sheep, how happy will the Lord be when a repentant sinner comes back to His Father!   “…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” (15:7)

Jesus always forgives a person who repents whole-heartedly.