Luke 15:6
Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.
You've heard the saying, "It takes a community or a village to raise a child." We want the best for our children and as they grow, we see them make some of life's mistakes. Sometimes they venture well off of the path and may never return. It can be sad, almost crushing in a sense. But when they humble themselves to realize their mistakes and return home, it's a time for rejoicing.
This weekend's gospel from Saint Luke shares three stories of lost and found. We hear the stories of the one lost sheep, the story of the lost coin, and in the longer reading, the prodigal son. The stories describe the disappointment of loss and the joy of finding or returning. The first line of the scripture says that Jesus was addressing the tax collectors and sinners, while the Pharisees and scribes were in the back, being critical of Jesus. The Pharisees were like the heads of the local temples and they decry sinners. They can't seem to see their own judgmental nature. Some may live by the phrase, "once a sinner, always a sinner." But Jesus shows them a different way. He is talking to both groups, giving practical examples of God's endless mercy. If you are parent, you might be disappointed in your child or spouse, and might hold it against them for a long time. Even if you forgive each other, you still may hold their action over their heads. They can never get out of the proverbial "dog house." But Jesus is teaching us to show compassion, forgiveness and mercy; in other words, to let it go.
On the other side of the coin, I've encountered many people who believe they aren't worthy of mercy. They mistakenly believe their transgressions are so egregious that no one, even God, would take them in, no one could ever forgive them, that no one could show them love because of what they've done. This kind of thinking also goes against God's plan for our salvation. He wants us to recognize our faults and to humble ourselves to ask for his love and mercy. He wants us to reconcile with our loved ones, giving up our hardness and giving our heart to God. When we do this, his mercy is great and his love is endless. Have the courage today to ask Jesus for help in showing mercy to those who have harmed you; like the forgiving father, open wide your arms of mercy to all.
