WHEN WE WANDER:THE RELENTLESS LOVE OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD

The image of sheep can sometimes carry a connotation of being easily led astray. And if we're honest, we know that tendency within ourselves, don't we? We wander. We get distracted. We sometimes stray from the path.

But the Good Shepherd doesn't just wait for us to stay perfectly in line. His love is a seeking love.

Jesus illustrates this beautifully in the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:4-6). When one sheep out of a hundred goes missing, the shepherd doesn't just shrug it off. He leaves the ninety-nine to go and search for the one lost lamb. And when he finds it, there's great rejoicing!

This parable gives us such a powerful glimpse into the heart of our Good Shepherd. He doesn't give up on us when we wander. His love is relentless. He actively pursues us, longing to bring us back into the safety and care of the flock.

Maybe you feel like you've wandered far. Maybe you feel lost or disconnected. Know this: the Good Shepherd is looking for you. His arms are open, ready to welcome you back. There's joy in His presence when even one lost sheep is found.

Let's Reflect:

• Have you ever felt like the "one lost sheep"? What does it mean to you that the Good Shepherd would actively seek you out?

• Is there an area of your life where you feel distant from God? How might the image of the Good Shepherd seeking the lost sheep encourage you today?

Let's Pray:

Loving Shepherd, thank You for Your persistent love that chases after us even when we stray. Thank You for never giving up on us. If there are places where we have wandered, draw us back to Yourself. May we experience the joy of being found and the security of being in Your care. Amen.