In the Gospel of Luke (chapter 15), Jesus tells the three parables about a lost sheep, a lost coin, and a lost son. In each case what was lost is found and the result is joy and celebration.
When the lost sheep, one of one hundred, is found, Jesus says, “Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (15:7)
When the lost coin, one of ten, is found, Jesus says, “Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (15:10).
When the lost son, one of two, returns home, Jesus says through the father, “It is fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found” (15:32).
How fitting to ponder these parables during the Easter season. We are rejoicing with many people who are taking important steps in their Christian journey. At the Easter vigil there were baptisms, professions of faith, and confirmations. Last weekend over 100 people, mostly children, celebrated their first Holy Communion in our parish. And at Pentecost another group of people will be confirmed by our Bishop. Each person is a cause for celebration in heaven and here on earth.
There have been some high profile people who have come into the Catholic Church during this joyous season, among them Shia LaBeouf, Tammy Peterson, and Candace Owens. We rejoice with them and we are called to pray for them as they grow in their discipleship in the way of Christ.
The folks that I have been privileged to work with over the past year are not known outside of their immediate circles, yet their conversions are equally significant and we are called to pray for them.
Will you join me in praying for Alexis, Ashtyn, César, Debbie, Liliana, Lorena, Lukas, Mario, Ryan, and Vedrana? There is joy in heaven and also on earth as a result of their decisions to follow after Jesus!