Jesus loved telling stories and understood the power of a good story. He drew crowds and captivated audiences. When he walked this earth, He wanted those who listened to engage their senses; to use their imagination. Richard Foster, author of the book Prayer, writes:
In Christian meditation we seek to live the experience of Scripture. “You open your New Testament…And by your imagination, that moment you are one of Christ’s disciples on the spot, and are at His feet. With your imagination, anointed with holy oil…at one time, you are the publican: at another you are the prodigal…As a practical aid in living the experience of Scripture, Ignatius of Loyola encourages us to apply all of our senses. We smell the sea. We hear the lap of water along the shore. We see the crowd. We feel the sun on our heads and the hunger pangs in our stomachs. We touch the hem of His garment.
From The Book of Luke
Apply all your senses as we read Luke 15:3-7.
“Then Jesus told them this parable. Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the 99 in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? I tell you in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous.”
Jesus Pursues Us
What a powerful reminder that Jesus pursues us! Even when we stray, Jesus cares deeply and wants to rescue us. He has his Father’s heart full of compassion and rich in mercy. He is graciously extending His invitation to everyone to experience an abundant life found only in Him. Why?
Compassion and Mercy
Because he is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9).
Because He’s come to seek and to save that which was Lost (Luke 19:10)
Because he is the good shepherd who gave his life for his sheep (John 10:11).
Because, as Paul wrote in Ephesians 1, “He chose us before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless. He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ to the praise of His glorious grace.
And because He who did not spare His own son, but gave him up for us all, will graciously give us all things – Romans 8:32
Amen and Amen! Many of you are praying for loved ones and friends that do not know Jesus. Trusting these truths encourage your heart today.