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Matthew 18:13 (BSB)
And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray.” — Matthew 18:13
Picture a shepherd who has a hundred sheep. One day, he notices one is missing. Instead of just shrugging it off and thinking, 'Well, I've still got 99,' he drops everything and goes searching for that lost one. When he finds it, his joy is through the roof! He celebrates like he just won the lottery, and that joy is even greater than the relief of keeping the 99 safe. This moment captures a beautiful truth: every single person matters. Can you feel that excitement? It's about love and value, a reminder that even when we feel lost, there's someone out there searching for us with immense joy!
Matthew, one of Jesus’ followers, wrote this book. He was a tax collector before joining Jesus, which means he had a unique perspective on being an outsider and being judged. His experiences shaped how he viewed people and their struggles. By including this specific detail about the shepherd’s joy, Matthew highlights the heart of Jesus – someone who sees the value in every person, especially those who feel lost or unworthy. It’s like Matthew is saying, 'I get it; I was once on the outside looking in, and I’ve seen how much love can change everything.'
This was written during a time when society often dismissed the marginalized and outcast. People had a hard time finding value in those who didn’t fit in or made mistakes. The culture was all about following rules and maintaining social order, often at the expense of compassion. It was a tough world for those who felt lost or rejected. By sharing this message, Matthew is reminding his readers that, in the midst of this harsh reality, there’s a radical love that seeks out the lost. It was revolutionary then, just as it is now!
This verse is a wake-up call for your life today. It shines a light on the fact that you are valued, no matter how lost or alone you might feel at times. It challenges you to think about how you treat others, especially those who may be struggling. Are you reaching out to those who feel abandoned? This verse encourages you to embrace your worth and the worth of others, reminding you that love doesn’t just count the numbers; it seeks out the one who needs it most. In a world that can feel cold, this message is a warm invitation to connect and care.
This week, think of someone who might feel lost or overlooked in your life. It could be a friend, a family member, or even someone at school or work. Reach out to them! Send a message, invite them for a coffee, or just check in. Show them that they matter to you. You could also reflect on moments when you felt lost and how it felt to be found or cared for. This will help you embody the joy of the shepherd and remind you of the impact of your kindness. Go out and be that person who seeks the one!
This verse is nestled in a discussion about how we treat one another, especially those who stray or struggle. Before this moment, Jesus is teaching about humility and the importance of caring for those who are vulnerable or lost. After this verse, He emphasizes the need for forgiveness and reconciliation. It's like a story arc where the missing sheep represents anyone who feels isolated or abandoned. This verse acts as a turning point, driving home the message that every individual has worth, and it’s crucial to seek out those who need love and connection. The tension builds as we see just how far a loving heart will go!
When was the last time you felt truly valued by someone, and how did it change your perspective? How can you be that source of value for someone else today?
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