What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it?
Luke 15:4
There is a false notion, that we can sometimes deceive ourselves with, that says we must fix ourselves before we can come before God in worship. You hear people say, “I’d be struck by lightning if I crossed the threshold of the church doors.” This is usually said in jest, but there is something behind it. Those practicing Christians who find themselves in a state of grave sin tend to also avoid prayer or find that their prayer becomes shallower. It’s the same mindset Adam and Eve had in the Garden when they hid from the Lord. Something in our broken nature pulls us further away from the Lord after we experience the slightest separation.
But it couldn’t be further away from God’s desire… In the parable of the hundred sheep and the shepherd, Jesus explains how the shepherd leaves the flock in search of the one and rejoices upon finding it. The same can be said for God’s desire for each one of us. We sometimes delay reconciliation with God because we want to find our way first. But just like the shepherd, God is searching for us the minute we go astray. Have the courage to turn to the Lord as soon as you feel lost because He is certainly ready to embrace you.
What is holding you back from allowing God to find you?
Lord give us the courage to receive your love and mercy today.
Today's Reflection is by:
Fr. Drew Woodke
Did you know…
Fr. Drew Woodke was born and raised in Brandon, receiving all of his Sacraments at Nativity Catholic Church. He did his undergraduate studies at Franciscan University of Steubenville before entering seminary. He is currently in his second year as a priest serving at St. Timothy’s in Lutz.
