Daily Prayers

Prayer is Love, I want to Love

Parable Of The Lost Sheep

Jesus’ Life: Chapter 9 – The Way To The Cross

Have you ever lost money, jewellery or something of great material or sentimental value? Perhaps, it seemed irreplaceable at the time!

Among a crowd gathering to hear Jesus preach, were some Pharisees. They noticed the presence of tax collectors and sinners among them so, they complained saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them”. 

Jesus, in response to their complaints, told them this parable:

Sketch of Jesus carrying a lamb and surrounded by sheep

“Which one of you, if he has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, would not leave the ninety-nine in the open pasture and go look for the one that is lost until he finds it? Then when he has found it, he places it on his shoulders, rejoicing”.

“Returning home, he calls together his friends and neighbours, telling them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my sheep that was lost.’”

“I tell you, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need to repent”. (Matthew 18:10-14, Luke 15:3-7)

Thought

God is merciful. He wants us to repent of our sins and follow his Son’s Gospel teachings. Like the one lost sheep, when we do, heaven will celebrate.

Reflection

Lord Jesus, guide those burdened by their sin and trapped in life’s material world, to your loving mercy. May they find peace and joy in your Son’s teachings and a friendly welcome in our Church.

Prayer: Priests and Religious

Lord of the harvest,
your Word finds a home in our heart,
calls us into community,
and invites us to generous service of the human family.
Bless with courage and spirit your priestly people,
called to full participation in the one Body of Christ.
May many choose to respond in public service
to your call offered in Jesus’ name. Amen.