Saturday

Psalm 32

Exodus 32:7-14

Luke 15:1-10

These two parables, one of the Lost Sheep and the other of the Lost Coin, are the first of three in a series in this 15^th chapter of Luke. The third and final one is known as the Parable of the Prodigal son, sometimes referred to as the Forgiving Father. They are told in reaction to the Pharisees concern that Jesus is eating with tax collectors and sinners. Horror of horrors!

Jesus tells these to those within earshot but perhaps more importantly to the Pharisees complaining about his table guests in hope that they might understand the lengths to which God will go to discover those who are lost and bring them back. Yet we can’t stop there. Jesus also tells these parables so that people will see not only the lengths to which God will go but also to understand the fact that God rejoices when the lost are found or return. Our God is a God who celebrates new life!

Sometimes we lose sight of that and need to keep in the forefront our God who rejoices, even celebrates when we are found and return to the One who names us and claims us. God loves to party!