Ninety-nine to One

Gospel: Mt 18:12-14
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121024.cfm

This gospel has always left me wondering why God would abandon the ninety-nine for the one. We can often be a very statistically driven society where we look at the ninety-nine to one and say why risk something happening to the ninety-nine to focus on the one. The needs of the ninety-nine are greater than just the one because there are 99X more of them.

But in this story, the shepherd is not abandoning the ninety-nine. First the ninety-nine are where they need to be. The shepherd didn’t leave them in the flatlands, but in the hills where they are safer from predators. The ninety-nine also have each other for support and unity. They have safety in their numbers. The shepherd doesn’t abandon the sheep because he is aware that their needs are taken care of and that there are low chances of something occurring if they go in search of the one. God’s work is never done until all are safe within the flock.

A lot of time we can focus on the ninety-nine in our lives; the things that are are already taken care of and lose sight of the one that is lost. It’s easier and more comfortable to keep with the ninety-nine as there is safety and security there. We may also get concerned that if we lose focus on ninety-nine, that something may happen and we need to keep it protected when it is perfectly secure and safe.

What are some of the things that you are currently overlooking in your life? Who are some people that during this season need your attention and connection? And for the ninety-nine, it is good to let them know the value you put there too and that you will always return.

God, help us know when and trust that the ninety-nine are safe so we can focus on the ones that need further attention. Amen.