Issue 1331 – Seeking – December 29, 2023
In Luke chapter two, we read about the shepherds to whom the angels appeared. They leave their flocks and head off to see the Messiah.
“When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.” Luke 2:15-18
It’s a familiar account that doesn’t tell us who looked after the sheep while they were gone. Maybe they walled in the entrance to the sheepfold; perhaps one was elected to stay behind, or maybe the heavenly host stood by. What we do know is they heard the news and responded. I’m confident God made sure the sheep were looked after.
It is the reverse of a familiar parable.
“Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. Luke 15:3-7
Jesus leaves the 99 to go and save the one who is lost. The shepherds leave their flock (temporarily) to seek the one who finds.
Now, I have to be careful here because, in some ways, I am comparing apples and oranges, and the juxtaposition of the two accounts can quickly fall apart. I’m simply doing some free thinking, not making a theological point.
Still, it does make me think. What things hold us back from seeking the Saviour and sitting at his feet? In the story of Martha and Mary, busyness kept Martha from coming.
“Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42
What holds you back? Mary and the shepherds knew the importance of the Messiah. He must come first.
Does He have first place in your life? What entanglements and temporary pressures hold you back?
May you find the way to Him.
Be blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the Glory of God alone)
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All contents, “Gleanings From The Word” and “Experience an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Life,” are © 2001, 2023 KF “Kevin” Corbin Gleanings From The Word.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
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