Lost and Found

Lost and Found – Today’s scripture involves the familiar parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin, but of critical importance is the setting for them. Jesus is having dinner with tax collectors and “sinners,” but the Pharisees and scribes were not happy that he was gathering with such people. The parables challenge their objections and demonstrate God’s willingness to seek out any who are lost and rejoice greatly when they return to the fold. In laying this out for us, Carol gives an example of our Methodist ancestor, John Wesley, who, in an era when it was not at all proper to preach anywhere but in a church building, went to the mines and preached to the miners, who, having been on the outskirts of society, were drawn in by God’s invitation through Wesley’s preaching. This evolved into Wesley’s later setting up weekly meetings of such people, the ancestors of our Sunday school gatherings. This message is important for each of us if/when we are feeling lost. God is active in seeking us out, and if and when we return to the fold, there is great rejoicing. NOTE: There was a microphone issue during the scripture reading.