The Pharisees observed the law and followed every precept, yet it seemed that they could not please Jesus. They found that He paid more attention to the tax collectors and those considered to be sinners, and this upset them.

Jesus illustrates what the ‘laws’ of God really mean through two stories: Shepherds normally count their sheep when rounding them up at the end of the day to ensure that all are accounted for. They would search for any missing sheep before calling it a day. The relief of finding the sheep alive and well compounded their happiness. Finding the lost coin would mean the difference between food on the table or not. Searching the house diligently for it, therefore, gains considerable significance.

Finding that which is lost – not just sheep and coins but also the sinner – is an occasion for great joy and celebration. Those who have been cut off and left in the cold are now welcomed and included.

Let it be known that we are all called to live in God’s love and mercy.