31stWeek in Ord. Time, Thursday – 04th November 2021 — Gospel: Lk 15,1-10
Called to Rejoice
While the parable of the Lost Sheep, is also found in the Gospel of Matthew, the parable of the Lost Coin is found only in the Gospel of Luke. These two parables focus more sharply on God’s joy at the recovery of what had been lost. Therefore, the parables focus not on the need for repentance but on the rejoicing and the call to the righteous to join in the celebration. In fact, God called upon the ninety-nine to rejoice. We are to rejoice and make merry over every repentant brother, every time someone accepts God’s mercy. Whether one will join in the celebration will reveal whether one’s relationships are based on merit or mercy. Those who cannot rejoice exclude themselves from God’s grace. However, only by God’s grace can we extend mercy the way that Jesus does. When we pray for that gift, our stony hearts melt and we are led from unforgiveness and judgement to peace and authentic joy.
