He Is Thrilled

Luke 15:5 (CEB) · The Gospel on Stage and Screen

“And when he finds it, he is thrilled and places it on his shoulders.” — Luke 15:5 (CEB)

Thrilled. Not relieved. Not resigned. Not muttering about the inconvenience. Thrilled. The shepherd finds the sheep and his first response is pure, uncomplicated joy. Then he does something remarkable, he doesn’t scold the sheep or drive it ahead of him. He lifts it onto his shoulders and carries it home.

We expect God to be disappointed when we’re found. We brace for the lecture, the conditions, the probationary period before we’re allowed back. But that’s not the story Jesus tells. The moment of finding is the moment of celebration. No debrief. No guilt trip. Just strong arms and shoulders broad enough to carry you.

Whatever you’ve wandered from, a practice, a relationship, a sense of purpose, the one who finds you is not frustrated. The one who finds you is thrilled.

Joyful God, reshape my picture of you. When you find me, you don’t scold, you celebrate. Help me receive that surprising joy today without flinching. Amen.