This book contains the following story:
The parable of the lost sheep is a story told by Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. It illustrates God's deep love and concern for those who are lost or straying from Him. Here is a summary of the plot:
The Lost Sheep: A shepherd had a flock of one hundred sheep, and one of them went astray. The sheep wandered away from the safety and care of the shepherd, becoming lost and vulnerable.
The Shepherd's Response: The shepherd realized that one of his sheep was missing and immediately set out to find it. He left the ninety-nine sheep in the open field and diligently searched for the lost one.
The Shepherd's Joyful Discovery: After an exhaustive search, the shepherd found the lost sheep. Overjoyed at its discovery, he lifted it onto his shoulders and carried it back to the flock.
Celebration and Rejoicing: Upon returning, the shepherd called together his friends and neighbors, asking them to rejoice with him. He explained that the lost sheep had been found, and there was great joy in its safe return.
Jesus' Message: In telling this parable, Jesus emphasized that there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents and turns back to God than over ninety-nine righteous people who do not need to repent. He highlighted God's loving and persistent pursuit of those who have strayed, expressing His desire for all to be reconciled with Him.
The parable of the lost sheep teaches the value that God places on each individual and His willingness to go to great lengths to bring them back into a loving relationship with Him. It reveals God's heart for the lost, emphasizing His compassion, mercy, and the joy that is experienced when a lost soul is found and restored. The parable encourages believers to have the same concern and love for those who are spiritually lost, reaching out to them with compassion and guiding them back to the fold of God's love.