Christ’s association with tax collectors and sinners, considered unclean by the Pharisees, posed a problem as it contradicted their understanding of holiness. They show their hand by being grumblers. This recalls for us tragic times in Israel’s history when Israel lost sight of God’s purpose.
Christ does not directly interact with their complaint, but Christ speaks in two parables. The first parable is about a shepherd who leaves the 99 sheep to find the one lost, highlighting his passion and love for his one sheep. This parable, though challenging to the Pharisees due to their negative perception of shepherds, underscores Christ’s role as the good shepherd seeking out the lost. Christ is the good shepherd promised in Ezekiel 34.
Christ’s second parable that he uses to address the pharisee’s concern is a parable about a lost coin. A woman loses her coin. This is most likely a dowry that is set apart to give the widow some financial security in the event of widowhood or divorce. She finds the coin, invites the villagers to celebrate, and that rejoicing is parallel to the shepherd who returns home to his village after finding the lost sheep.
These parables contrasts the Pharisees’ self-righteousness and lack of understanding of the need for repentance. The text emphasizes the importance of finding righteousness and redemption in Christ, rather than relying on one’s own standards, and encourages a mindset of celebrating the lost coming to faith.
The most shocking part is that the angels in heaven celebrate the lost being found and coming to place of repentance. The angels in heaven are so holy they have every right to be self-righteous. However, they celebrate a sinful coming turning one’s ways to align with the purpose of Christ and his kingdom.
Let us celebrate repentance, recognizing our continual need for God’s grace and call to conform to Christ out of gratitude. Let us desire to align with the heavenly choir, celebrating the kingdom’s priorities.
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