The kingdom parables Jesus tells in Luke's Gospel, chapter 15, are about losing, finding, and celebrating--first, the lost sheep; second, the lost coin; and third, the lost son. The parables serve to encourage all who are lost or who may become lost. The shepherd searches and celebrates; the woman sweeps and rejoices; the father waits, welcomes, and hosts a great feast.
But the parables serve to convict, if not to shame, all who stubbornly reject the opportunity to embrace the joy of their friends, neighbors, and families. It's clear from the stories he tells that Jesus views the happiness of the tax collectors and "sinners" not only as opportunities, but also as invitations to celebrate together.
So when angels in the presence of God invite me how do I respond--with mealy-mouthed muttering or with heartfelt praise?
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