The disciples asked our Lord, “who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” If we know what the Lord values, it will help us to better serve Him. In Luke 15, He gives three parables to let us see what is important in His Kingdom.

One parable is the Shepherd leaving the 99 to search for one lost sheep gone astray. Jesus compares the lost sheep to a lost person’s soul. He says, “…That likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth more than over ninety and nine just persons who need no repentance.”

There are some challenges when seeking the wayward. Some do not see themselves as lost so do not see the need to be rescued. Many know where they are and do not want to leave. Some, who were wounded by the church, will refuse to return.

Patience will be required to rescue those who have gone astray. In order to have a harvest, there must be planting, watering, cultivating and time for fruit to develop. We must have a love for the individual and want them to come to the Savior more than they want to come.

A broken heart for the wayward comes from a burden for their lost soul. One other requirement is understanding and asking, “Why did they go astray?” Putting yourself in their shoes will give you the compassion and the wisdom on how to approach them.

Then, there is the importance of seeking the lost. Matthew 18:15 says, “…Thou hast gained thy brother.” The word gained is a term used in the financial world meaning to work for something of great value. How valuable is the one that is saved; you will be able to enjoy them for eternity.

If you have someone who is lost and away from God, please do not give up. Keep on praying for them to see their need of a Savior. Keep on witnessing and living a Godly life before them so the Lord may convict them.

If you do not have a burden for the lost, ask the Lord and He will give you one. Read the Word of God and allow Him to reveal the horrors of hell and the glories of heaven.

One of the greatest rewards you can receive will be those who are in heaven because God used you to introduce them to the Lord Jesus. He said, “For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” If you have someone on your heart who will not be in heaven one day, please do not give up until they are safely home.

Steve Conwell, pastor of Maranatha Baptist Church, is heard mornings on WFLO and WVHL in “A Thought for Today.” His email address is SteveConwell@outlook.com.