That Dangerous Island

Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15 communicates many important things. For one, the story highlights that Jesus came to seek and save that which was lost. Secondly, Jesus made it clear to the scribes and Pharisees in attendance that they should be rejoicing for those lost souls of Israel that were entering the kingdom. And lastly, this parable demonstrates the truth that there is safety in belonging to the flock and being under the leadership of the Good Shepherd. It’s that all-important belonging I want us to consider together today.

Now let's stay with our Savior’s illustration for a moment and ponder just how that sheep might have gotten lost. Perhaps the poor guy was completely oblivious of his own whereabouts. I mean that does happen. Maybe he didn’t “feel” connected to the other sheep. Then again, it’s possible that he was simply following one green patch of grass after another until he looked up and thought, “uh-oh!”

The point is this: it is hazardous for us to traverse this life alone. Peter explains why in chapter five of his first letter. “Be serious! Be alert! Your adversary the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour.”  Now we’ve all seen the National Geographic episodes where the king of the jungle ambushes his prey. Secretly, the lion waits in the shadows of the Serengeti plains before unleashing a sudden attack on his unsuspecting victim where he completely annihilates the weaker animal. If you’ve paid attention to these shows, you’ve noticed that this cat is pretty smart. He doesn’t just jump in the middle of any wildebeest herd but rather waits for the wondering calf or the gimpy gazelle that has become separated from the group. We must be cautious to not become similarly isolated.

There are numerous obstacles in life that keep us at a distance from others. Some of these hindrances are beyond our control, making legitimate connection a real struggle. However, if your own independent pride and need for individuality is creating such a chasm, please be warned that you are toying with fire. Proverbs 18:1 says it like this, “One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; 
he rebels against all sound judgment.” So, if the proverbs were given to contrast the actions of the wise and foolish, then knowingly remaining in such isolation would clearly be called folly. If we could sit down over coffee and share our testimonies, you’d hear that mine has included some dark hours and tough lessons learned on that dangerous island.

We all need some sort of outlet. We desire to be known well enough by others that when we struggle, someone is there to take notice. We all need somebody with us in life to call us out in our error when necessary. We're desperate for someone to point us toward the Good News of grace and mercy and forgiveness that's in Christ. The Bible stresses the significance of such relationships as well.

Wise King Solomon knew the benefits of sharing life’s experiences together (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12), David sang of unity’s beauty (Psalm 133:1), and the writer of Hebrews practically pleaded for his readers to remain in fellowship for the mutual welfare of the body (Hebrews 10:24-25). Paul encouraged young Timothy to flee all that was sinful and pursue Christ with others that were like-minded (2 Timothy 2:22). Over and over the Holy Scriptures beckon us to belong to something bigger. However, I think that Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is one of the most challenging on this topic. In His prayer for us, the Son asks the Father to grow our knowledge of Him and increase our unity as believers. The point is essentially this: our fullness is found by having a deepening relationship with God AND His people.

Think about it… No one wakes up and decides to make an absolute mess of their life. That would be ridiculous! People don’t choose to ruin their marriage and family, shipwreck their faith, and find themselves utterly hopeless and confused. Yet we all drift from time to time. We all misplace our faith in others and ourselves on occasion, and we’re all open to crisis. Scripture promises hardships and calamity to come (James 1:2). The question is whether or not you will be ready for it? I’m not suggesting that you’ll crumble when trouble approaches. I am saying that adversity is on its way if it hasn’t already arrived, and being obedient to Christ’s call to community is the best way we can position ourselves to endure.

So how exactly will you respond? Are you currently connected with other believers? If your world begins to come unraveled tomorrow, do you have a group of folks that you can call on? Is your marriage, faith, and family grounded enough to withstand an unforeseen blast from the enemy? Maybe your family is plugged in and if so, that’s awesome! The question for you is different. Are you seeking to find those whose are not? Community reminds us that it’s not just about us and it never will be. Jesus came to seek and to save and bring others into His flock. Might we answer our call as believers and share His heart of compassion.

Yes, the D-Train is coming and we are all very excited! However, our hope is not placed in this event or the structure of our off-campus discipleship groups. Our hope is that God would use such vehicles to draw men and women unto Himself. Our prayer is that families will experience a deep connection in Christ and discover fresh ways to encourage each other. May we experience the fullness of His joy by together growing in Him.

Father we ask You to do that which only You can. May Your Spirit move in this body for the glory and honor of Your Name. Sweet Jesus, help us make much of You…