LUKE 15:1–7
THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP
Text – Luke 15:1–7
1 The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to him,
2 but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
3 So to them he addressed this parable.
4 “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it?”
5 “And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy
6 and, upon arriving home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’”
7 “I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Tax collectors and sinners were socially marginalized groups in first-century Judaism. Tax collectors were often associated with corruption and Roman collaboration, while “sinners” referred to those whose lifestyles placed them outside strict religious observance. Jesus’ welcoming of such individuals challenged prevailing social and religious expectations. Shepherding was a common occupation, and losing even one sheep was serious. Shepherds often searched rugged terrain tirelessly until the lost sheep was found. Carrying a sheep on one’s shoulders was a familiar, compassionate image. Jesus’ audience would recognize this as an act of deep commitment and joy.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This parable reveals the heart of God’s mercy. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks the lost with unwavering love. Catholic theology emphasizes that salvation begins with God’s initiative—He searches for the sinner before the sinner seeks Him. The joy in heaven reflects the communion of saints and angels who rejoice whenever a soul turns back to God. The ninety-nine represent those already in grace, while the lost sheep symbolizes anyone who has strayed. This passage illuminates the essence of the Sacrament of Reconciliation: God actively pursues the sinner, lifts them up, and restores them to communion. Divine love is personal—God knows each soul, carries our burdens, and rejoices over our return.
Parallels in Scripture
Ez 34:11–16 – God seeks the lost and binds up the injured.
Ps 23 – The Lord as the shepherd who guides and protects.
Jn 10:11–18 – Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life.
Lk 19:10 – “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.”
1 Pet 2:25 – Returning to the Shepherd and Guardian of souls.
Key Terms
Tax collectors and sinners – Those marginalized yet deeply receptive to Jesus’ mercy.
Lost sheep – Symbol of the sinner who has strayed.
Good Shepherd – Christ’s identity as the divine guide and protector.
Joy in heaven – Celebration of divine mercy and conversion.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in Masses focused on mercy and is central to the Church’s Lenten and penitential themes. It is often proclaimed during celebrations of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It supports catechesis on God’s universal salvific will and His compassion toward the weak and wayward.
Conclusion
Jesus teaches that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. The Good Shepherd searches, finds, carries, and rejoices over every repentant soul. The parable reveals a God whose love is personal, persistent, and joyful.
Reflection
Am I aware of God’s desire to seek me when I stray? Do I rejoice with heaven when others return to God? Jesus invites me to share His heart for the lost and to trust in His unfailing mercy.
Prayer
Good Shepherd Jesus, seek me whenever I wander and carry me back to Your loving embrace. Give me a heart that rejoices in the conversion of others and help me to participate in Your mission of mercy. Strengthen me to walk faithfully with You each day. Amen.