Lost And Found

By Paula Williamson, guest writer

There is nothing quite like being lost. Whether you were a child at the State Fair and suddenly looked around and saw no familiar faces, or a parent whose child had been standing beside you and was suddenly gone, being lost is a horrible feeling.

It Is Written

MATTHEW 18:12 “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them gets lost, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountain and go in search of the one that is lost?

MATTHEW 18:20 So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was moved with compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.

The Prodigal

Matthew 18 tells the story of a son who received his inheritance early. He squandered it recklessly and wastefully, only to find himself far from home, slopping hogs. He comes to his senses and heads home, where his father has been watching and waiting for his return. He is neither scolded nor rejected. His father sees him from afar and runs to meet him. He throws a party for him, dresses him in his best robe, and puts a ring on his finger. He is found. He is home. Just as the father in this story watches and waits for us, so does God.

Prayer

Lord, I have wandered so far away. I have done so many things I am ashamed of; I feel deeply guilty and ashamed. I don't know how you can ever forgive me, but like a child who has lost their way, I lift my arms to You. I want to come home. I want to belong. Forgive me. I forgive myself. I surrender my heart and life to You. Lord Jesus, come into my life. I want to come home.

Takeaway

Belonging is a prayer away.