Slideshow image

"If any of you has a hundred sheep, and one of them gets lost, what will you do? Won't you leave the ninety-nine in the wild and go look for the lost sheep until you find it?" —Luke 15:4 (CEV)

Getting lost usually doesn't happen because of a big, rebellious decision. It’s more like a hiker who takes a wrong turn by accident. They’re walking with purpose, feeling completely confident, only to look up and realize the familiar landmarks are gone. They didn't mean to go the wrong way; they just kept their head down for too long.

I spent years in that "meander." In the military, I focused on catching up on sleep or doing my laundry. I was so busy focused on my own "clover" that I didn't even realize I had wandered far from home. But the Shepherd didn't wait for a loud bleat to start the search—He already knew I was missing. He tracked me down through home-cooked meals and eventually through my relationship with my wife, Marcy.

The most important thing a lost hiker can do is "stay put." If you feel like you've meandered away from peace or from God, stop trying to fix it yourself. Just stay put. Let the Shepherd pick you up and carry you home to the party.

Let's Connect

  • Think about your week: where have you kept your head down too long?

  • Text Pastor Vic at 509-919-1897 if you're feeling lost and need someone to walk with you.

Reflection & Prayer We often think we need to find God, but this story shows us that God is the one doing the searching. He's waiting for you to look up and realize you've walked away.

Lord, thank You for noticing when I'm missing. Thank You for pushing through the mess of my life to find me. Help me to stay put and let myself be carried home. Amen.