Reflections for Lent

Luke 15:3-7 NRSV

So he told them this parable: “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? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

Lost and Found

I was brought up attending a small country church. When I went off to college, I made the decision that church was not for me. That continued to be my decision until 1989 when I joined Grace UMC, where I stayed until the mid-1990s. I became one of the unchurched once again. I retired in 2009 after teaching for 37 years. I had a grand time for a few years, doing whatever I desired to and could afford. Still, there seemed to be something missing. 

During those years, I occasionally returned to attend a Prime-Time event. It was at one of those events that I was first invited to attend the Women of Faith Sunday School class. Sometime later, I contacted a friend and made arrangements to sit with her at an upcoming LifeSong worship service and go with her to her Sunday School class, which turned out to be the Women of Faith. This class consisted of a wonderful group of women who loved the Lord and who embraced this lost sheep with total acceptance. I think of them now as God’s angels, passionate to do His work on Earth. 

I was invited to attend the Upper Room Encouragers and listened until I felt comfortable enough to share. This group and my SS class both assured me I was accepted and forgiven by our Heavenly Father. I came to believe He loved me more than I loved myself. Wow!! I am no longer lost but am a humble member of the flock who loves coming to church! Hopefully, one day, I will be able to help someone find their way to believe Jesus is the Good Shepherd who loves all. 

~Judy Simpson~ 

Jesus, thank You for seeking after us when sometimes we become lost sheep. Help to open our eyes to opportunities to help someone come into the flock. In your precious name we pray, Amen.