The joy of compassion, the way of christ, the way of the church

a theological-pastoral approach to Lc 15:1-7

Abstract

This article aims to provide a theological approach to Luke 15:1-7, drawing pastoral insights from this biblical text. It focuses on the parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing not the lost sheep itself but the joy of the shepherd upon finding it. This joy is analogously linked to the joy of the Heavenly Father over the conversion of a sinner, a joy shared by all of heaven. It is crucial to begin this approach with contextualization of the selected pericope, as it is part of a larger set of three parables known as the parables of compassion, which form the core of Luke's gospel. This contextualization is significant because this biblical fragment bears resemblance to Matthew 18:12-14, with the difference lying in the evangelists' intentions, highlighted by the context in which they place the parable. For Luke, the parable clearly justifies Jesus' actions toward tax collectors and sinners with whom he shares meals. This article will also address the historical-social context and significance of Jesus' choice of associating with tax collectors in response to the moral and exclusive demands of the Pharisees. Finally, pastoral implications for ecclesial praxis in light of this parable of compassion will be drawn.