We must always keep in our hearts the promise made by Jesus: For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. (Matthew 7:8). The shepherd in the parable told by the Master must have asked God to lead him to his sheep, and so it happened. After all, whoever knocks on the door of faith finds it open. Heaven and earth will pass away, but the words of the Most High will not pass away (Matthew 24:35). Believe!

When we realize that the Word is revealed to us – that a promise has caught our attention – the best attitude is to believe that it belongs to us and to act according to the guidance of the Scriptures. Without a doubt, God will fulfill it. Never say that the revelation will not become real in your life and, therefore, will not claim it. Never make God sad!

If the scene of the encounter with the lost sheep were filmed, we would see a mix of relief and joy on the shepherd's face. She, for sure, had felt fear and anguish; he, concern, but now he smiled with happiness upon seeing her unharmed, ready to be taken to the others who remained under his care. The shepherd's happiness was justified!

After finding her, the shepherd placed her on his shoulders, as if to say, "Now, you will have my affection. You are safe; I did not lose you.” In fact, we must live with the Lord at all times so that we never lose anything, especially the reward He will give us on the Last Day. Regarding this, He warned us: Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. (Revelation 3:11). Whoever obeys the Most High will be rewarded.

How lovely to see the shepherd returning with his little sheep! She was his, and no one would take her from his hands! It is good to show the person who strayed from the faith and the church that, upon their return, they can be at peace, because no one will take them away from the Father. This is the message of Jesus for those who return to Him: no one will take them out of His hands. He is the perfect Savior!

The shepherd's walk to the fold must have been one of contentment, for God had helped him in the rescue of the sheep. The shepherds are simple people who cannot bear to lose any of their precious animals. After all, they invest time and effort to take care of them. A rich man who owns thousands of animals might not miss one, but our Shepherd and Lord does. He becomes saddened if one sheep from His flock goes astray and He goes in search of it.

The shepherd of the parable, just like Jesus, returned joyfully with the sheep and placed it among the others. She had gone astray, but with divine guidance, she was recovered. If you have forgotten the promises of the Lord, ask Him to refresh them in your mind, and He will. Keep a joyful countenance and be grateful. Talk to God about how you feel about being part of His flock. The Father rejoices in seeing you satisfied!          

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares