3 Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose someone among you had one hundred sheep and lost one of them. Wouldn’t he leave the other ninety-nine in the pasture and search for the lost one until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he is thrilled and places it on his shoulders. 6 When he arrives home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Celebrate with me because I’ve found my lost sheep.’ 7 In the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who changes both heart and life than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need to change their hearts and lives. (Luke 15 CEB)
Lost Causes
For those of you who were able to hear my sermon on the Parable of the Lost Sheep this past Sunday (July 29, 2018) you know I talked a little about lost causes. I’ve continued to reflect on this idea this past week. I’ve been pondering about what leads us to determine that someone is a lost cause. One dictionary definition of the phrase “lost cause” follows:
“A person or thing that can no longer hope to succeed or be changed for the better” this same entry lists a synonym for lost cause as hopeless.
At first glance I am convinced this whole idea runs opposite of the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The radical optimism of grace holds that there is always hope and always the possibility of change for the better.
But back to my question, “Why do we dismiss some people as lost causes?” I suppose it has a lot to do with our own experiences with that person. Sometimes I think we determine someone is a lost cause simply by what we see on the outside.
I have been amazed a few times when I’ve seen time lapse video of a homeless man getting a full makeover. A new haircut, a shave, and new clothes and they seem transformed. Here’s a link to one example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAvgW63Y-Y4
If only it were that easy in daily life.
Yet, I think this is the heart of the message of this parable. Whenever we are tempted to label someone a lost cause, we need this reminder, Jesus the Good Shepherd would persue that lost sheep… seeking the lost until they are found.
Here is my prayer for you and me:
“Lord, help me to identify the people in my life I’ve labeled as a “lost cause.” Remind me in your Way of life there are no lost causes, there is always hope for transformation. Help me to be an agent for change in someone’s life, pointing them to the hope that is found in You. Help me to be a “seeker of the lost.” Amen.
Here’s link to the recording of my sermon: