Celebrate Hope: Looking Back Stepping UpÖrnek

Finding Our Way Back

Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. - Luke 15:4 

Twins Barbara and Daphne had been adopted at birth by separate families after a tragedy in the children’s biological family. Reunited as adults, they discovered uncanny similarities. They each met their husbands at sixteen; tragically had miscarriages, and went on to have two sons and a daughter. They liked the same foods and had the same health issues. Although they were separated at birth, their connection stayed strong despite their physical distance from one another. 

Sometimes we may feel spiritually disconnected from God. We stray away. But that never diminishes the love God has for us. In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus 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). 

In college, we gain fresh independence while navigating new relationships and more. Exciting changes can result in distancing ourselves from God. But no matter what mistakes we make, or what path we take that leads us away, if we repent, God welcomes us. Even though we may have been seemingly on our own in the world, Jesus still considers us as precious as His lost sheep in the parable. Doesn’t He leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until He finds it and carries it back home? —Nia Caldwell

During times of loneliness and hopelessness, what things do you do to combat sadness or anxiety? 

Dear God, whenever I am feeling lonely or lost in my faith, allow peace and comfort to flow over me to remind me that You love me no matter where I’ve been or what I’ve done. I thank You for this everlasting mercy and grace that allows us to come back to You.