Theme of the Day: The Found Are Left; The Lost Are Found
“He’s lost.” We use that term not only to refer to someone who is bewildered about where they are but also to refer to someone who is in a helpless, hopeless state. Mankind’s natural state is one of complete spiritual helplessness, a profound lostness. It manifests itself in countless ways. The one who simply wants God to leave him alone: lost. The one who feels she can handle life on her own: lost. The one who thinks he has the right to repent of his sins on his own timetable and on his own terms: lost. The one who thinks God owes them in some way: lost. Wandering around physically lost can lead to winding up in bad places. But the hard truth is that wandering around spiritually lost puts you in the worst place of all. Fortunately, Jesus does not leave us alone in our lostness. He relentlessly seeks us. He involves the rest of the Christian community in seeking the lost and rejoicing over the found.
Luke 15:1-10
Hosea 3:1-5
2 Corinthians 2:5-11
Psalm 51
656 – As Surely As I Live, God Said
654 – Jesus Sinners Does Receive
814 – Just as I Am, without One Plea
619 – Praise the Almighty; My Soul, Adore Him
545 – O Love, How Deep
Prayer of the Day: Lord, we pray that your mercy and grace may always go before and follow after us that, loving you with undivided hearts, we may be ready for every good and useful work; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Alleluia.