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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.

Luke 15:6-7

Take a moment to consider what Jesus said in verses 6-7 of Luke 15. Let’s begin with “Rejoice with me!” Have you imagined Jesus rejoicing, being so full of joy that he bursts out celebrating over you? Sit in that thought for a moment. Imagine his face. Imagine his smile. Imagine his excitement. Imagine Jesus rejoicing about you! It is a beautiful sight.

Now, remember the context in which Jesus told this story. Men and women had just been shamed because some “religious” gossipers talked badly about them. They didn’t think a guy like Jesus should hang out with “those kinds of people.” In response, Jesus told this parable. He not only communicated his love, value, and pursuit of these men and women with checkered pasts, but he also made it very clear that bringing them back to God brought him incredible joy!

Jesus didn’t have to save you. He didn’t have to pursue you. He didn’t have to give you new life. He chose to do all these things because it brings him great joy!

Today, as you read these verses, allow the joy of Jesus to wash over you. What do you want to say to the one who joyfully celebrates you in the presence of those who would shame you? What do you want to say to the one who rejoices over you today? Write down your responses to these questions and anything God says to you during this time.