‭‭Luke‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ — Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I 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.

It is not surprising that Jesus used the illustration of sheep in this parable. Just like humans, sheep are very vulnerable creatures. We both long for a shepherd to guide us. Although at times we stray, our greatest command is to love. That reckless love is what guides us in seeking and desiring to be sought. We read in Psalm 119:176 NIV – I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. 

Sunday I encouraged you to listen to Reckless Love by Cory Asbury. The chorus sings, “Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending reckless love of God. Oh, it chases me down, fights ’til I’m found, leaves the 99.” Will you allow God to seek you? Or will He have to chase you? As you sit in God’s presence today, stay a while. Try not to focus on running to your next task. 

Let’s pray. Dear God, I desire to be fully present at Your feet. Seek me for I have not forgotten Your commands. Thank You for the overwhelming, never-ending reckless love that only You can give. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.