Jesus talks about the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Matt 18:12-14) just after talking about quickly addressing our own sin (Matt 18:8-9).

The Enduring Word commentary quotes Spurgeon about this passage who says, “perhaps the most dangerous, form of the temptation, is to despise one, because that one has gone astray.”

And if you’ve been dealing with a lost loved one whose sin is impacting you, or a prodigal that is wearing you out, then you might need to consider this as an area of temptation to sin in your own life.

Spurgeon said , “Oh, how we ought to love sinners, since Jesus loved us, and died for us while we were yet sinners! We must care for drunkards while they still pass round the cup; swearers even while we hear them swear…We must not wait till we see some better thing in them, but feel an intense interest for them as what they are – straying and lost.”

The Enduring Word commentary adds in regards to, “ If he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep” : The shepherd was happy when he found the sheep. He wasn’t angry or bitter over his hard work or lost time. His joy was overflowing.”

I’m reminded to guard my heart against bitterness in the hard work of loving the lost and prodigals. My emotions often go from sad to mad in these situations . I can’t let that turn into sin and bitterness as the enemy would surely desire.

Let’s remember God can do what we can’t do and He can even teach us how to be more like Him through the process of drawing (even the hard to deal with) lost to Himself.

Let’s guard our hearts and minds in Him and ask the Lord to guide us as we love those running away from Jesus. And remember, many of us were once the ones running.

readMatthew

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