Rejoicing in heaven

Read > Luke 15:1-10

There is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away! (v. 7).

One of the most stressful times in my university life was the week before my dissertation was due. Somehow I had managed to lose all the data my paper was based around! For a few days I frantically searched everywhere, desperate to find it. Just in time. I came across it. My sense of joy was inexpressible. How much greater joy in heaven when someone becomes a Christian! (Luke 15:7).

As we saw yesterday there is great cost in following Jesus but in today’s passage, Jesus explains there is greater gain.

Jesus told these parables to the Pharisees who thought they were secure to enter heaven because of their religiosity. But Jesus says ‘just persons who need no repentance’ cause no rejoicing in heaven. This may be a surprise, but Jesus says that just being religious doesn’t please God. Instead “there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.” This is not about anything we have done. The heavenly rejoicing is a celebration of God loves grace towards us.

How can a sheep find its way home? Or how can a coin make itself known? Just like these we have no way to save ourselves and present ourselves acceptable to God. He is the one who comes to find us and rescue us. This is all about Him.

Just as we might have relief when we find important things, God and the whole of heaven rejoice when someone becomes a Christian. It’s a wonderful rescue which allows us to rejoice with heaven in the presence of God who loves and cares for us. So let’s “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4) because God is loving and faithful to save us no matter who we are or what we have done! – Chris Wale

More >

·         Ezekiel 34:11-12, 16

·         Luke 10:20

·         John 10:14-16

Next >

How do the parables of the lost coin and sheep help you better understand your spiritual condition before God’s intervention in your life? How does it help you to appreciate God’s goodness?