Passage of the Day:
Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent, Luke 15:1-7.
Reflection:
While society tends to evolve to become more progressive, accepting that which was once forbidden, you’ll still cross paths with Pharisees today. These modern-day Pharisees may not be religious leaders, but they will judge you, often following the mantra “do as I say, not as I do.” During a mission trip in North Carolina, I brought a ratty pair of sneakers to work in and a new pair of scandals. Rather than whisper behind my back, several adults verbally crucified me in person for wearing scandals in church. This experience caught me off guard, leaving a bitter taste it my mouth. Subsequently, it took me several years to find my way back home to a church that I believed in and trusted.
Prayerful Action:
On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’[a] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners,” Matthew 9:12-13.
Working Out Your Salvation:
Jesus had to often remind first century Pharisees that it was sinners who needed help, not the righteous. This is why Jesus spent so much time with His disciples and the spiritually lost. As you strive to emulate Jesus’ practices this summer, remember the words of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:14-15. Rather than letting yourself become unequally yoked, make sure you have and maintain balance in your life. The Psalmist illustrates how the people you hang around daily influences your behavior, Psalm 1:1-2. This is why Jesus arose early every morning to spend time with God to prepare for those He came in contact with daily, Mark 1:35-39. The next time you find yourself like a lost sheep, look to Jesus to find your way home.
Song of the Day:
Age of Faith puts a new spin on the Prodigal Son parable in today’s song. Don’t listen to the Father of all lies, John 8:44, who will fill your mind with guilt and shame. Rather, recall the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28-30 to find your way back home.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 