Robert Robinson’s great hymn, “Come Thou Fount,” just about sums up the parable we are looking at this Sunday: Let that goodness like a fetter Bind my wandering heart to Thee Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it Prone to leave the God I love

I suppose one of the reasons for the enduring nature of this song is the honesty of the poet. Oh, how I wish that this verse were not true in my own soul. Yet, in my own reflections as I get older, I sadly have to admit that, yes, I am prone to wander, prone to doubt and mistrust the God who bled for me. I think I have told you, I thought I would actually be a little better at this point, that I would have passed beyond the wandering phase of Christianity, but it hasn’t happened. I suppose that is why God uses this metaphor of him being a great Shepherd and we, his wandering sheep.

Here is the thing: it is the nature of sheep to wander. But, you know what is even better, it is the shepherd’s job to track down his wandering sheep. I have sort of made peace with the former, but the knowledge of the latter electrifies my soul. God is a Shepherd that doesn’t seem put out chasing down his wayward children. So, on Sunday we will talk about our call to be like Jesus with those around us, and how we are to help those who wander. Hope to see you on the live-stream!

Blessings,

Jim