Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.” In today’s Gospel (Luke 15:1-10), Jesus tells us the story of the lost sheep. The parable starts out, “Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, ‘This man receives sinners and eats with them.’” The Pharisee and the scribes were not happy with him fraternizing with “sinners.” But Jesus’ acceptance of these open sinners shows the deepness of his love. It does not matter how serious the sin, Christ will always accept you back into his fold. He tells them that if a shepherd with 100 sheep looses one, would he not leave the other 99 to get the one which is lost. When you loose something and have to search frantically, do you not rejoice when you finally find it. That’s how God feels when we finally realize that our sins are wrong and we come to God for forgiveness and salvation. Gods tell his angels, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Jesus told his disciples, “I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” We are all sinners, but we are not all good repenters. As sinners, we are drawn to Christ because of his mercy and kindness. When we repent, Christ wraps his arms around us to give us that consoling warmth of his forgiving love. Christ wants all his sheep in heaven. There is not one she he will not fight for. He does not want us out wandering lost in the wilderness. Seek Christ and his forgiveness. Seek the Eucharist for it is the bread of life and our salvation. Seek reconciliation for it is truly a celebration with God. No matter what you have done, no matter what sin you have committed, Christ will be there to receive you with open arms and he will celebrate your return with joyous music.

A Simple Prayer

Christ, you are the light of my salvation.

You lead me to the truth and the way.

Forgive me of my transgressions which are many

Because I want to be in the protection of your arms.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon