Last week, I lost a dear companion and friend of almost 14 years. One of our dogs who was very dear to us wandered off and has not returned.
I, along with some great friends and neighbors, searched into the night with flashlights but did not find our dog. The next day, we posted her photo on the internet, contacted neighbors, and even went into town to check the animal shelter. Still, our friend was lost. More searching was to no avail. At the point of giving up and turning for home, we came to the conclusion Katie was gone.
I thought of the parable our Lord told to the publicans and sinners in the presence of the scribes and Pharisees. Our Lord, as recorded in Matthew and Luke, told the parable of the man who had 100 sheep but lost one. He left the ninety and nine and went searching for the lost sheep. Once the man found the lost sheep he called his friends and neighbors to rejoice. He spoke in these terms so that we could relate to what he was saying.
We can understand the value of and affection for lost items. God places high value on lost souls. There shall be joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, more than the ninety-nine just saints who need no repentance. Unlike the parable, our dog remains lost. Even though she is lost and we are grieving, I am indeed thankful to the Lord that it was the dog who was lost and not one of my daughters.
Yet, how much more tragic it is when a soul has left the fold and is lost! We should be searching for those who have strayed away from us with the same urgency, for eternity is in the balance. Reaching out to those who are astray with emails, calls, cards, and perhaps a visit, can make a difference and possibly save a soul from death (James 5:20).
For the elders, Tony Williams