They didn't like the company that Jesus kept: those tax collectors and sinners, rather than Pharisees and legal experts.
It's getting late in the game for Jesus; time is running out. Time is running out for those around Jesus to grasp the power of his presence among them - which is an incarnated message of God's loving intent toward this creation and all its creatures.
So he tells them a story: a wealthy sheep owner loses one sheep. He goes out, leaving behind the 99, and searches until he finds the 'one.' You would do the same thing, right? No, they probably wouldn't. No 'one' sheep is worthy the well being of the 99.
Well, you see, that is where you get lost yourself. To this shepherd each 'one' is worthy and treasured. Each 'one' that is lost must be found. Even you; even me.
And when it is, we will all rejoice together. Friends, family, community....saints below and saints above....the whole company of heaven...will rejoice.
Got it? That's the kind of God you have; that's my Father and your Creator - out in the world seeking the lost 'ones' and bringing them home. Remember that when you, who were once lost, are found: there is more work to do, more lost 'ones' to find. Our task is not to complain about their appearance or willfulness in getting lost, our task is to rejoice with all of heaven.
Oh, and give thanks to God for God's mercy and love. Luke 15.1-7
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