Jesus told the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost (prodigal) son, as a specific response to the Pharisees and scribes who were grumbling that he was associating with and receiving “sinners.” In the parables Jesus emphasizes the sacrifice, diligence, and patience of the shepherd, the woman, and the father to find what was lost. Jesus, who “came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10) is sending a very clear message that each and every one of us is called to do the same. We are to reach out to everyone with the good news of the gospel of grace (Acts 20:24) so that we may all together be found in Christ and celebrate in the kingdom of God.
