If you read one of my favorite chapters in the Gospels, Luke 15, you’ll see those three parables, the Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, and Lost Sons. And you’ll see something else. Rejoicing!
“’Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” [v6-7]
“’Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” [v9-10]
“Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate…. and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” [v22-23, 32]
Each lost one who returns is a cause for celebration and rejoicing. Not just the rejoicing and celebrating done here when we see someone come to salvation through Christ Jesus … but rejoicing in heaven. I love the way Jesus said it in verse 10 – rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God.
When I read that small phrase, I wonder just Who is doing the rejoicing in the angel’s presence – and I think it is our Father God. Can you imagine the amazement on the faces of the angles as they watch the Father celebrating the return of one child after another? Just to imagine that scene constantly replaying in heaven leaves me breathless spiritually.
That God would love us so. That He would rejoice over each one who comes to Him is almost unfathomable.
Oh Father, thank You for Your love. Amen!
