Jesus came first to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). The pig, on the other hand, symbolizes the Gentile world, which the Jews considered “unclean” and outside of God’s plan of salvation. That the apostles themselves early on struggled with the inclusion of the Gentiles can be seen in Acts, especially in chapter 10, where God makes clear to Peter that the work of salvation is intended for all people, Jew and Gentile alike.

In chapter 15 of Luke’s gospel account, Jesus tells the story of the “Lost Sheep” because some of the religious leaders of his day were grumbling about his fellowship with “tax collectors and sinners.” Yet Jesus points out in the stories that follow how all of heaven rejoices when “outsiders” become “insiders,” and those who are lost are found – Jews, Gentiles, lambs, and pigs alike. If you are searching for meaning and purpose in your life, if you are seeking a closer relationship with God, or if you just have found yourself feeling like someone on the “outside” lately, we invite you to join us for worship on Sunday.

Come as you are, and know that you are welcome!