Stress Test Devotional May 18
May 18, 2024
LUKE 15:3-4 | 3 So he told them this parable: 4 Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it?
Jesus redefines holiness as friendship and connection with those who are spiritually struggling. Now the Pharisaic approach, avoiding the lost, seems at first to be safer. After all, we can’t get drawn into bad habits if we avoid those who practice them. But unfortunately, there is great spiritual risk with the separation strategy. It produces hard and fast divisions in the human family, encourages pride, and misses the fundamental need everyone has for God’s freely given grace.
There is of course, also risk in seeking the lost sheep. The shepherd may not find his wandering animal and so, waste his time and effort. The sheep in the wilderness may have gotten injured and need care or be hunted by predators and need protection. Human “lostness” is often much more complicated, psychologically and practically.
Do you have an eye for the lost, confused, and the wandering?
Gracious God,
I don’t want to be weary in well-doing. Sustain my energy. Help me notice those who are alone or struggling. Let me take holy risks.
Amen.
