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Thoughts from DA Kolb
Jesus Christ teaches us in Luke 15 that the source of joy and celebration in the kingdom is that the lost are found and the dead are made alive; this brings completeness. Interestingly in all three parables, the joy is a result in finding one! In a sense, this summarizes the plan of salvation for humanity and each human being.
- God wants all (not just 99), and as a shepherd, He finds the lost one to help them to return. He works diligently, just as the woman did, to recover what is missing. And He is as the father, who allows his son his free will, yet waits and watches for his repentance and return so that he can restore him and celebrate.
From another perspective, are we lacking completeness, fulfillment, or peace because we have lost something? Have we lost the Lord?
- Are we immediately aroused, as the shepherd was, to "leave our comfort" and find what is missing?
- Are we diligent, as the woman was, to:
- Light a lamp? = we have prepared for the divine service and we allow the Word of God to cause a deep introspection into our heart—"I believe, help my unbelief!"
- Sweep the house? = acknowledge our sin and get rid of the old (grudges, ideas, etc.).
- Search carefully? = referring to Jeremiah 29:13-14: And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart...I will be found by you. This means to leave our self-centeredness and make Christ our life's focus, which in turn means to focus on others, those whom He loves and puts in our life.
- Are we patient, as the father was, to watch and wait for the opportunity to accept, restore, and celebrate God's goodness? And then, once found, celebrate with thankful joy?
Or are we seemingly justified (v. 7) and need no repentance (change, adjustment, returning) as the:
- Older brother who "remained at home," but could not perceive nor learn from the love in his father's heart for his brother?
- Pharisee in the temple who sacrificed and tithed, but arrogantly looked for recognition and reward and was glad he was not like others?
- Rich young man who kept all the commandments from his youth, yet could not accept the advice of Christ and let go...?
Thus, we can understand that if we truly strive to be citizens of the kingdom, our joy must also emanate from being found and from finding Christ again and again. This means to rediscover the wonders of His love and grace by preparing to be moved in the divine service, being aware of our real (sinful) self and changing, and focusing on loving one another...as I have loved you! (Christ's words)