In the same way, I tell you that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous ones who do not need to repent.
Luke 15:7
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A party in heaven
Why did Jesus tell the parable of the lost sheep? Luke says so at the start of the chapter. Pharisees and scribes, the pious teachers of the law, were grumbling that he received sinners and ate with them. This verse rounds off the first part of his answer to them.
Ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance: that sounds almost ironic. Whoever thinks he has no need to turn back misses the party. When someone returns, God doesn't look at them with a frown, but with joy. And he invites his children to look at them the same way.
Question for today
Can I be glad when someone returns to God, even if I had written them off?
Prayer
Father, you rejoice over every person who comes home. Teach me to celebrate with you, without grumbling. Amen.
My prayer
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