We Are The Lost Sheep

As I think about the parables Christ taught, the three "lost" parables - the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son - come to mind as incredibly relevant and applicable to each of us today. I know that for me, there've been times in my life where I've felt lost. Sometimes, it's been because I'm not sure what the next step is that I should take, sometimes it's been a direct result of my decisions and actions, and sometimes it's been a result of the situation around me. However, I know that as long as we are following the Savior, we are never truly lost. He loves us and He wants what's best for us. By choosing to try our best, to follow Him and keep His commandments, we allow His guidance and love to protect us. And yes, He allows light and hope to shine where we wouldn't otherwise think it to be possible. No decision or action or situation will ever cause us to be outside the reach of the Savior's arms. We can never wander "too far away" for the Atonement and the blessings of the Gospel to restore, replenish, and return hope and peace to our lives. Luke 15 teaches that with the three parables, and in each of them, they end with joyful celebration because that is how the Savior feels when we return to Him. We are all like the lost sheep because no one is perfect and the other ninety-and-nine didn't need repentance. So, yes, we will each be lost at some point in our lives. It's the decision to remain humble and continue to seek repentance that will restore happiness and love to our lives.