Devo Luke 15

1Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear him. 2But
the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners
and eats with them.” 3Then Jesus told them this parable: 4”Suppose one of you
has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in
the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds
it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends
and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7I
tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner
who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

Meditation:
1. Jesus portrayed a picture of God who is like the shepherd searching for his
lost sheep so God searches for His lost ones, “for the Son of Man came to
seek and to save what was lost”.
2. What is my picture of God? How do I view the “sinners” around me? Is
my attitude that of seeking the lost, the way Jesus did, or standing aloof and
casting a disparaging glance, the way the religious leaders did?
3. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the picture of you searching for the
lost sheep. Help me to relate your true picture to those I come in contact
with: your love, not indifference, your grace, not judgement, your kindness,
not criticism. I pray especially for ……………………. (someone who does
not know the Lord).

Personal Note:
God is the ultimate source of love who has the desire to seek after us.  I am reminded that Jesus had compassion on the lost and not to be judgmental like the religious leaders.  I need God's help in caring for people who needs to experience and know God's love.