99|01 | Tess Butler

So often I’ve thought that because I follow Jesus, I’m part of the ‘99 sheep’ and Jesus leaves me to find all of those who don’t know Him. While this is true to some extent, I’ve recently had this revelation that each of us is the one lost sheep. John 10:27 says that the sheep know the Shepherd’s voice and they follow Him. They obey. But how often do I hear God’s voice and not obey? How often do I go off in my own direction and disobey the Word of God because I doubt His goodness and His faithfulness? How often do I think my plan is better than His? That if I obey God I’ll be lacking? Maybe you and I, at times, are the one sheep that Jesus goes after.

There is a song called Reckless Love by Cory Asbury. The chorus says, “Oh the overwhelming, neverending, reckless love of God. Oh, it chases me down, fights till I’m found, leaves the 99.” I’d recommend playing it on your Spotify as you process these thoughts this week!

Jesus doesn’t just care that you become a Christian. He doesn’t just lead you to repentance, which is the turning away from sin, or to a church service on Sunday and then leave you be. He truly cares about what is going on in your life and in your heart. He has been faithfully pursuing you from the very beginning and will faithfully pursue you until the end! Sometimes we get off track and start heading down the wrong path, but know that nothing will stop God from pursuing you and fighting till you’re found and back safe in His arms. He leaves the 99 for you.