In Matthew’s Gospel, when Jesus commissions the twelve, He gives them this instruction:
“Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:5-6).
There’s important historical and biblical context here—Jesus first sends His apostles to the people of Israel, and only later will they go out to all nations. But His words highlight something deeper: a heart for the lost.
Just a few verses before, we see Jesus moved with compassion: “At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36).
Who are the lost sheep in your life? Who are those around you who feel troubled or abandoned, perhaps struggling quietly, unseen? Who needs prayers, encouragement, or simply to witness the Father’s love through your kindness?
Sometimes, our own “lost sheep” aren’t obvious. They might be close friends, family members, or even coworkers who, on the surface, seem just fine. But like Jesus’ first mission field, our field may be closer than we think.
Today, let’s ask for eyes to see the lost sheep around us and the heart to reach out with compassion, remembering that we are Christ’s hands and feet, called to bring His love to those who need it most.