Monday, July 26, 2021
Today’s Scripture
Today’s Author
Rachal Little
In this chapter, Jesus shares three parables all with a common theme – the joy of recovering what was lost. The chapter begins with the Pharisees grumbling about Jesus eating with tax collectors and other “sinners.” And Jesus responds, as he’s wont to do, by telling three stories. The first is about a shepherd’s joy after searching for and finding one lost sheep that had wandered away from the flock. The second story is about a woman’s celebration at finding her lost coin after a careful and thorough search. Both the shepherd and the woman expend significant effort to find what they had lost, and this paints a beautiful picture for how diligently God seeks out those who are lost and searching.
This is no better illustrated than in Jesus’s final parable in this chapter – the Prodigal Son. As the son is coming home after squandering his portion of the inheritance, scripture says that the father saw him, “even while he was a long way off.” The father was searching for him! Filled with compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and threw a banquet for the entire house because his child had come home – he was dead, but is alive again; was lost, but is now found. That is cause for celebration!
All three stories end with rejoicing, and we are invited to share in the joy of God’s mercy extended to us and to others. While we deserve punishment for our rebellion, we are constantly met by God with grace – the warmest welcome there is. We are never out of God’s sight. We are seen “even while we are a long way off,” and God is ready and waiting with joy and celebration to welcome us home. Thanks be to God! Alleluia!
Summer Devotional
God Goes With Us
This summer’s devotional is a walk through the Bible. Join our pastors and staff for daily reflections on scripture passages from Genesis to Revelation. In the beginning, God said, “I will be your God and you will be my people.” Come and see how this covenant promise changes through time yet remains steadfast from generation to generation.
Each Sunday, Chris Holmes will share a short message on the texts for the week, and written reflections will go out every Monday through Thursday morning.
We wish you blessings and deeper faith this summer!
