Jessel Pradeep Cutinha csc –
Readings: Is 40:1-11; Mt 18:12-14
We all belong to God. God holds us together under His wings as one family. Today’s gospel reading tells us that, though we may be like the lost sheep, God comes in search of us. He embraces us with arms open wide and comforts us. He always desires that no one should be lost. Jesus came down to the earth when Israel was lost and scattered, the people went away from the Lord.
In the first reading prophet Isaiah comforts the people of Israel and speaks of God’s tender motherly love. Prophet Isaiah assures the people that the Lord will be with them, and he will gather them like the Shepherd. With mercy, compassion and love God will lead Israel. The fulfillment of this promise is portrayed in today’s Gospel. Jesus is the good shepherd who left the ninety-nine and went after the one who is strayed. Jesus the Messiah took the initiative to bring each one who has been away from the Lord.
Today, God is asking us to break down the mountain of ego, He is asking us to do good and be good in order to make the path straight to receive Christ. God is asking us to fill the valleys of brokenness and emptiness. One or the other way we are away from the Lord, we feel neglected and left out from the universal family of God. But God is looking for us, perhaps He is waiting to hear our cry of help.
Do I allow God to find me? God never wants us to be lost in this world, Am I ready to be guided and led by Him?