Joy!

Joy!

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 15:7 NIV

The Inspiration:

Think of the love of an earthly father. It does not matter what the child does; the blood connection cannot be broken or destroyed by rejection. A son can go ahead and claim independence, and even change his name, but that does not change the DNA connection between the son and his earthly father. A man who has a daughter knows firsthand what it means to have a child who hangs on your every word. If human relationships can reflect love like this, imagine the impact, scope and depth of our father in heaven.

The Expectation:

That love is what is shown in today's verse. God is the good shepherd who takes good care of the sheep. He calls each sheep by name and leads them out to pasture and to rest. His heart of love will not lead a sheep astray, but it may happen that the sheep decides it wants to go its own way. God's love is such that doesn't force anyone against his will; He wants me to come to Him of my own freewill. It is love that gives freewill, so that love can flow out of a heart that has submitted to it.

The Conclusion:

God's heart of love is such that no matter how far I wander, I am never too far away from God's grace. Paul, a murderer, found grace. Simon the fearful became Peter the rock. Today's verse tells me that even heaven reflects God's heart when it comes to His creation. He made me, and He will not just give up on me. The one person who wanders away is very important to God, as much as the 99 who are already safe. No matter where I am right now, God is looking out for me. Picture God rejoicing as I find my way back to Him. The blood of Jesus makes the bond unbreakable. What are you waiting for? God's time of favour is here.