In answer to the grumblings of some religious leaders, Jesus told three parables in Luke 15 about lost and found items: a sheep, a coin, and a son. All of them emphasize the joy of God over bringing one lost person back to himself. The third parable is open-ended, forcing each of us to consider if we are going enter into God’s joyful feast or remain outside.
Jesus’ scathing denunciation of the religious leaders exposed their hypocrisy and challenges us to let his light shine on ours.
Although Paul’s circumstances were very difficult, he focused on bigger realities in which he rejoiced.
In the famous story of Daniel in the lions’ den, we learn about being blameless and see again that God reigns and rescues.
