Luke 15 focuses on three parables of lost items that were reclaimed. In each case, the finder rejoiced exceedingly at relocating their treasure, be it lamb, coin, or child. Every year, stories of those who are physically top the news. The one that stands out most recently was of the family who became lost in a blizzard; the wife and children were saved but the husband, who left the car to seek help, was lost. Hikers, children, and older folks with memory troubles are similarly sought after with great effort, and the nation rejoices when they are found or mourns when they are lost. Yet every day, souls are lost as they wander away from or willfully abandon the gospel. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the same time and effort could be put into seeking out those souls who have wandered away from the gospel?
In the past, I have written of an inactive sister I fellowshipped who was glad to be contacted. I’m glad to report that she has been to church three of the last three Sundays, and is in the process of finding a job that will give her the Sabbath day off. All that she needed, required, and wanted was loving contact.
Similarly, our Relief Society President has noticed that inactive sisters are usually glad to lend a hand to those in need. We recently had an older gentleman move, and he lacked furniture and other essential items, such as a bed. As the President contacted various inactive sisters, she found them more than willing to help out. Such an opportunity lead to contact, which can lead to bringing them gently back into the fold.
According to a talk given by President David O. McKay, the three items lost in Luke 15 were lost for different reasons. The lamb followed the temptations of greener pasture and gradually wandered away from the fold. The coin was lost through the careless neglect of others. The prodigal son deliberately left. President McKay compared these to members who lose their focus and seek after riches or other worldly things that draw them from the gospel; those who were offended by someone else; and those who willfully rebel from the gospel. All can be brought back by those who love and care enough to try.
If someone called you up to report that a member of your branch or ward was lost in the wilderness, would you immediately set out to locate them? Would you throw on your coat, find someone to watch your kids, grab your flashlight and seek until they were found? Such is how the Lord views those who have strayed spiritually; they are potentially in greater danger. As disciples of Christ, we bear part of the responsibility for bringing those souls back to our Savior. Of course, those who are lost must desire to return; they must make the greatest effort. But we can facilitate that effort; we can love them despite their having strayed. In doing so, we will become more like the Master.
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