"Lost and Found" | April 20, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

As spring blossoms and Easter approaches, we're reminded of the profound message of renewal and redemption at the heart of this sacred season. Beyond the pastel colors, Easter eggs, and family gatherings lies a transformative truth: what was once lost can be found, and what was dead can be brought back to life.

At its core, Easter is about hope. It's a celebration of the ultimate victory - Jesus' triumph over death and the grave. But this isn't just a historical event to commemorate; it's an invitation for each of us to experience resurrection in our own lives.

The Human Condition: Admitting We're Lost

Before we can be found, we must first admit that we're lost. This isn't about weakness; it's about honesty. Isaiah 53:6 puts it plainly: "All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's path to follow our own." How often do we find ourselves wandering off course, trying to navigate life on our own terms? We may not even realize how far we've strayed until we look in the mirror one day and barely recognize ourselves.

Pride can keep us from admitting we're lost. Like a stubborn driver refusing to ask for directions, we can wander aimlessly, insisting we know where we're going even when it's clear we don't. But here's the liberating truth: acknowledging that we're lost is the first step toward being found.

The Heart of God: Seeking the Lost

Jesus described his mission clearly in Luke 19:10: "For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost." This isn't about condemnation or judgment. It's about a relentless love that pursues us even when we've wandered far from home.

Think about how you'd react if you lost something of little value, like a cheap pair of flip-flops at the beach. You might look around halfheartedly, but you'd likely shrug it off and move on. Now contrast that with losing something irreplaceable - a child, a wedding ring, or a beloved pet. The intensity of your search would be entirely different.

This is how God sees us. We're not disposable trinkets to Him; we're treasures of immeasurable worth. He doesn't tire of seeking us out, no matter how many times we may stray. Our value isn't determined by our perfection or lack thereof, but by the love of our Creator who says we're worth everything.

From Lost to Found: A New Creation

Being found by God isn't just about getting back on the right path. It's about total transformation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"

The gospel isn't merely a "get out of hell free" card or a ticket to heaven someday. It's an invitation to experience renewal, redemption, and abundant life right now. When we surrender control of our lives to Jesus, acknowledging Him as Lord, He doesn't just pull us out of the water - He breathes new life into us.

This new life is marked by purpose, hope, and the power to overcome. It's about living in a way that pushes back against darkness and despair. The resurrection of Jesus wasn't just a spectacular event; it was the dawn of a new reality where death no longer has the final word.

Responding to the Whisper

Perhaps as you read this, you sense a gentle whisper in your heart. That stirring, that sense that it's time to get back on track - that's the voice of a loving God calling you home. Romans 10:9 offers a simple yet profound pathway: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

This Easter, before the festivities and traditions take center stage, consider taking a moment to respond to that whisper. Whether it's your first time or your hundredth time, here's a simple prayer to guide you:

"Jesus, thank you for coming to earth and dying on a cross for me. Today, I respond by giving you my life. I confess you as my Lord and Savior. I make you my King. Fill me with new life, forgive me of my sins, and strip away shame, hopelessness, and depression. Give me the new life that comes with you. Amen."

Living Out the Resurrection

Making this decision isn't meant to be a private, isolated event. It's the beginning of a journey best walked in community. Consider sharing your decision with someone you trust, or even taking the bold step of being baptized as a public declaration of your new life in Christ.

As we celebrate Easter, let's remember that the power of the resurrection isn't confined to history books or church services. It's a living reality that can transform our lives today. Just as Jesus emerged victorious from the tomb, we too can rise from the ashes of defeat, shame, and brokenness.

The resurrected King is still in the business of resurrecting lives. Your past doesn't have to define your future. Your mistakes don't have to be the end of your story. In Christ, there is always hope for a new beginning.

This Easter, may we each experience the joy of being found, the wonder of new life, and the transformative power of God's relentless love. As we sing, pray, and celebrate, let's embrace the truth that echoes through the ages: He is risen, and because He lives, we too can live - fully, freely, and abundantly.