Philippians 3:3-8
Psalm 104(105):2-7
Luke 15:1-10
Discovering what was lost
In today’s Gospel, Jesus shares two parables that reveal the incomparable value of the Kingdom of Heaven: a treasure discovered in a field and a pearl of great price. In each story, the finder recognizes the treasure’s worth and joyfully gives up everything to obtain it. These parables invite us to rejoice when we discover what is truly precious. Heaven, too, rejoices when a sinner turns away from sin and returns to God. How deeply this must gladden the Father’s heart!
Reflecting on repentance, St. John Chrysostom once said:
“Do not be ashamed when you repent; be ashamed when you sin. Sin is the wound; repentance is the medicine.”
Keeping God’s commandments calls us to turn away from sin, which separates us from God and harms our relationships with our neighbors. Following Jesus’ commandment to love means living with obedience, commitment, sacrifice, detachment, repentance, perseverance, and faithfulness. Are we ready to offer ourselves fully to Jesus and surrender everything to Him? Do we love God by loving our neighbors, and do we love them as Christ calls us to? In seeking to follow Christ, can we truly please the Father as He did?
Let us persevere in overcoming every obstacle that keeps us from God’s love. May He continue to grant us salvation, and may that salvation reach the ends of the earth through us. Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
