ANGELS WATCH OVER CHILDREN




*05/07/2020*

MID-WEEK *HOLY COMMUNION* SERVICE

THEME: *ANGELS: MESSENGERS OF GOD*

TOPIC: *WHAT DO GOOD ANGELS DO?*

SUB-TOPIC: *ANGELS WATCH OVER CHILDREN*

TEXT: *Matthew 18:10*

Matthew 18:10-14
Luke groups this parable with the parables of the lost coin and the lost son, as all three speak of *God's pastoral heart*, his care for his little ones (Luke 15).
These little ones have direct access to his presence, and if they should be deceived by someone or something and wonder away, the Father does not rest until they are safely returned to the fold.
The leaving of the ninety-nine sheep is not to be understood as a reckless act of abandonment (Matthew 18:12). In Jesus' day, shepherds worked in groups, and the diligent shepherd would have left them in the care of others - with the communal herd.
Luke emphasizes the joy that followed the recovery of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7), whereas Matthew emphasizes the concern that none of the vulnerable members should be lost (Matthew 18:14).
Both perspectives are true, for the same concern that leads to the diligent search will express itself in great joy when the search is successful. The *Father's pastoral heart* not only seeks and restores but also rejoices when straying sheep are safely restored to the fold.

*Confession*
May the angels of God watch over me and my household.
May there be a restoration of all that is lost.
*In Jesus name*
Amen.

*Copyright 2020. The Ecumenican Church Nigeria*
Instagram: *@ecumenicanchurch*
WhatsApp: *+2348052366039*
*www.johnifesanya.blogspot.com*
*#TEC#*

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