The Parable of the Lost Sheep
'Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does not 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.'
Reference: Luke 15:3-7
The Search for the Lost
A teacher oversaw a lively classroom and cared deeply about every student, paying attention not only to grades but also to the emotional well-being of each child. When one student began missing school and drifting away from responsibilities, she noticed the absence immediately and felt concern that he might be struggling with something unseen. Instead of focusing solely on the students who stayed engaged, she reached out to his family, asked caring questions, and offered support without criticism. Her efforts reassured the student that he was not forgotten, and he slowly returned with a sense of renewed belonging.
The day he walked back into class, she welcomed him with genuine joy that lifted his spirits and encouraged him to believe in himself again. Her compassion changed the atmosphere for everyone, reminding the class that each person holds value and that no one should feel alone. Jesus teaches that God pursues those who drift away because He sees their worth and understands their struggles. Heaven rejoices when anyone returns, and that celebration reflects a love that refuses to give up on those who need guidance the most.