To Seek and to Save

Jesus was very clear about God's vision for his life: "to seek and to save those who are lost." Consequently, the Church's vision is the same.

So how does a church seek the lost? How does the Church save the lost? Do the lost know they need to be found?

Honestly, I struggle with the language here. It seems condescending for anyone to say to another, "You are lost....let me save you." I imagine the sting of a Bible thumping some poor unsuspecting person atop the head. And then running as fast as they can...the other direction.

So what is the church to do? Are there other options?

Jesus said the words, "I have been sent to seek and to save the lost" in response to his encounter with Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus was found up a tree, trying to see Jesus. And Jesus approached him so they could share a meal. No Bible thumping at all.

How has Jesus approached us with companionship and grace? How can the Church "seek and save" like Jesus?

[sermon preview "To Seek and to Save" for Sunday, 8.19.07 Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, Westminster, CA]