Here we see the Pharisees in shock at the sight of Jesus’ eating with tax collectors and other notorious sinners. Jesus, in response, tells them a parable about a lost sheep. The shepherd represents Jesus, and the sheep represents the notorious sinners. The shepherd went looking for the lost sheep – not the 99 who were already in the fold. Then he brought his friends and neighbors over to celebrate! Jesus did not just come for those who already knew God. He came for those who don’t have a relationship with Him. Jesus came to seek, save, and rejoice – and we should be doing the same.

• What did your life look like before you accepted Christ as your Savior?
• If you are a Christian, are you reaching others as Jesus did? If so, how are you reaching them?