It’s happened many times. I’m in a hurry, rushing through the morning, pouring cereal into my bowl—and suddenly, it spills everywhere. I scoop up most of the pieces, but a few roll away. “I’ll get those later,” I think, and move on with my day.
If there were just one piece I missed, I wouldn’t worry about it. But that’s exactly the opposite of how Jesus feels about us.
In Luke, chapter 15, Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep. The one lost sheep represents all of humanity as we wander through life. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, turns His loving attention toward fallen humanity, searching tirelessly to bring each of us home.
His diligence and unwavering commitment reveal a God who does not sit back in judgment or anger, but a God who searches, finds, and rejoices when we are found.
So often, we fall into the trap of thinking we must find our own way back to Him through effort or worthiness. But the truth is simpler and more beautiful: God is already looking for us. He longs to lift us up, place us on His shoulders, and carry us safely home.
I’m grateful that God doesn’t see me as a piece of lost cereal—but as His beloved child.
A Prayer
My gentle Jesus, You are the Good Shepherd.
You love me and search for me with diligence and fidelity.
May I trust You enough to stop running and hiding from Your gentle voice.
Please come to me, pick me up, place me on Your shoulders,
and carry me home.