jesus seeks the lost
“The Son of Man has come to search out and save what was lost.” —Luke 19:10
Jesus has an extraordinary ability to point out sins, but He does so in such a way that people are happy to repent, do penance, restore damages, and then have fellowship with Him. Notorious sinners such as Matthew and Zacchaeus were happy to be with Jesus (see Mt 9:9-10; Lk 19:6). It’s still the same today (Heb 13:8).
Jesus draws all people to Himself (Jn 12:32). Sinners throughout the ages have been so happy to receive the love and mercy of Jesus that they gladly repented and believed. Jesus does not ignore sin and sinners (Jn 8:11). Rather, He lifts them from the swamp of sin and raises them to the joys of new, risen life with Him.
Jesus intentionally seeks the lost and sinful people of this world (Lk 19:10). He is the Good Shepherd Who leaves the safety and comfort of the sheepfold to search for the lost and wounded (Lk 15:1ff). Jesus stands knocking at the door of our heart (Rv 3:20).
Jesus is not soft on sin. He is direct and challenging, but His touch makes a sinner welcome His intervention. Jesus is knocking on your door. “Be earnest about it, therefore. Repent!” (Rv 3:19)
Prayer: Jesus, give me the grace to always open wide the door of my heart to Your knocking (2 Cor 6:13).
Promise: “I know the reputation you have of being alive, when in fact you are dead! Wake up, and strengthen what remains before it dies.” —Rv 3:1-2
Praise: St. Albert the Great is a Doctor of the Church and the patron of scientists. He was also a respected philosopher, theologian, and teacher. His star pupil was St. Thomas Aquinas.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2022, through November 30, 2022. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 3, 2022
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