"If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?"
— Matthew 18:12 (NIV)

During Lent, we often reflect on repentance and return—our own journey back to God. But in this passage from Matthew, Jesus shifts the focus: it’s not just about the sheep returning. It’s about the Shepherd who seeks.

The heart of Christ is revealed in this image: He notices the one who has wandered. He doesn’t write them off. He doesn’t wait for them to find their way back. He goes after them. Actively. Personally. Joyfully.

In our lives, there are people who reflect this Shepherd-heart. They seek out the forgotten, the hurting, the doubting. They go after the friend who stopped showing up, the family member who’s drifting, the neighbor overwhelmed by life. These people embody Jesus’ love—relentless, tender, and never too busy for the one.

Pastors. Mentors. Parents. Teachers. Counselors. Volunteers. Friends. Quiet saints behind the scenes. They walk toward the mess, not away from it. They carry hope into hard places. They listen without judgment. They remind the lost they are never truly alone.

This Lent, as we reflect on our Shepherd who seeks us, let’s also give thanks for the people in our lives who do the same.

Here is an example of a note you could write...
A Note of Thanks
Dear [Name],

In this Lenten season, I’ve been reflecting on the parable of the lost sheep—and I couldn’t help but think of you.

You have the heart of the Shepherd. You notice the ones who wander. You care deeply, even when no one’s watching. You reach out, follow up, and walk with people through their darkest days.

Thank you for the quiet phone calls, the prayers no one hears, the persistence in love. Thank you for showing us what it means to leave the ninety-nine and go after the one.

Because of your faithfulness, many have found their way home.

With deep gratitude,
 [Your Name]

Reflection Question:
Who has been a “shepherd” in your life? How can you thank or encourage them this week?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for never giving up on us. Thank You for seeking the lost and for placing people in our lives who do the same. Bless those who serve with Shepherd-hearts. Give me eyes to see the lost and courage to go after them in love. Amen.