The Parable Of The Lost Sheep

The Parable Of The Lost Sheep

(A Teaching On How God Pursues The Sinner)

Luke 15:1-7

“Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him.  And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” So He spoke this parable to them, saying:

“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbours, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’
I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.”"

"Poetry Through The Parables" Introduction

In the Autumn of 2021, I was preparing my different poetry series for 2022 when I felt the Holy Spirit prompt me to focus on some of the parables found in the Bible. I discovered that the meaning behind the word “parable,” is “to throw alongside of.” It seems that a parable is a story, thrown alongside the truth with the purpose of teaching the listener. Stories based on earthly scenarios but full of Heavenly meaning.

As a professional performer, I certainly know the power and impact that story-telling can have in relaying a message. As I delved into the depths of the purpose and meanings behind each parable, I was fascinated to discover how Jesus used this method to teach incredible points and principles. The pictures He created with the parables really help our minds remember the truths shared and the lessons being taught.

The purpose of the parable runs much deeper than just story-telling, however. Through my studies, I learned that the parables of Jesus were indeed intended to be listened to but also they acted as a challenge to the hearers. Their purpose wasn’t just to convey a message but also to place a personal challenge at each person’s doorstep.

You Are...Saved And Justified

The first part to my "You Are" series takes a look at the fact that the child of God is saved and justified by Jesus Christ.

My "You Are" verses are intended to run alongside my "I Am" series and this first excerpt co-ordinates with last week's post which focused on Jesus' statement in John 10:9-10. It reads,

“I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”

Jesus Christ made it clear that He is the only way to salvation, therefore as a Christian, you are saved and justified. I hope these verses and this wonderful truth can bless your heart today.

"I Am The Door"

For 2022, I felt inspired to write a series that focuses on the “I Am” statements of Jesus Christ. I gave myself two verses to express some key elements and truths found within the words of Jesus and what the message is for the listener.

As a parallel series to run alongside my “I Am” verses, I felt led to write a series called “You Are.” These two-verse poems will focus on who “you are” as a child of God and draw attention to just some of the many benefits and blessings of being a Christian.

My third and final series for this year is called “Poetry Through The Parables” which has it’s own introduction. I’ve written each of these series slightly differently from the ones in the past and have structured them to have moments of reflection, questions to ponder or taking some time to expand upon the Scriptures with an afterword of insight.

I plan to record all of these poems as well as recording the afterwords and points for reflection, which is new for 2022! I pray my writing can bless your heart this year, whether taken as a short devotional or something that inspires further study into God’s amazing Word.