Our Father, We Have Wandered

"What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray?  And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray.  So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish."
Matthew 18:12-14

The focus of the Scripture readings in Lent are repentance and forgiveness.  Everything we do throughout these 40 days is a preparation for Holy Week, as we remember Christ's death and resurrection.  In light of all He has done for us, we take a more intentional look at the things which separate us from the intimate relationship He so desires.

Often, we discover small things that have grown over time.  Things that are generally okay or even good can become distractions to our passion for Christ.  Like the sheep in this parable, we find a blade of grass--only a few feet from the herd--that looks delectable.  Oh, but there is a patch over there that appears to be even tastier!  Soon, we find ourselves far from the herd, off in our own little wilderness, and quite distant from the Shepherd.

Thankfully, in His ardent love for us, our Shepherd seeks us.  He actively pursues us along our wandering path, until He discovers our whereabouts.  Whether we're in a cave, have fallen down a slippery slope, or we're caught in the thorns of a wild berry bush, He works to free us from that situation.  Once we are found, there is rejoicing!  He doesn't stand by and say, "Well, too bad.  See if you can get yourself out of this mess!"