A man who leaves the light of Christ walks in his own shadow.

We’ve all know someone who was once a solid member of the church, but for one reason or another, found themselves back in the world. It’s our fallen nature and the world can be a powerful draw. We have to fight against the allure every day. You know the formula: every Sunday you miss makes it easier to miss another. After a while, the Spirit is quenched, quieted, and easily ignored. The notion of sin doesn’t seem as bad as it once did, and the prior zeal and belief feel so distant, you begin to wonder in they were ever real.

This struggle impacts people of all denominations. Yet many respond with condemnation that defies logic - and is certainly contrary to Scripture. Some claim, “They were never truly saved,” or, “They’ve backslid to the point of losing their eternal salvation.” Neither of those extremes is biblical.

Our true Shepherd never gives up on His sheep. He knows the lamb is in danger in the world, but waits patiently for his return. His love for the sheep is never diminished, never forgotten. The price He paid to secure the loved one is too great to ever be overridden. He is never forsaken.

The joy and safety of the Master’s pasture are always available. Some sheep will find their way back home.

Luke 15:4-7 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

This parable ends with rejoicing--not rebuke-- because the Shepherd's joy is in restoration,-- not punishment.

Matthew 18:12-14 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

The Father's will is clear: every lost sheep matters, and none are beyond His reach!

John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

This verse underscores the depth of love—sacrificed and unwavering.

1 Peter 2:25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

A direct affirmation that returning is not only possible—it is celebrated.