How to Organize a Party Worthy of Heaven

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” ~ Luke 15:1-10

by Cale Pritchett on March 06, 2024

Friends, we sure know how to party here on earth. Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, graduations, and even quirky festivals for fruits and vegetables (I heard the Strawberry Festival in Poteet, TX is a good time). But what about heaven? What does a party there look like?  In Luke 15, Jesus reveals that repentance causes rejoicing there. When someone turns to God, it's cause for more celebration than for 99 who don't need to repent.

So, how can we throw a heavenly-worthy rager? Here are some steps to consider: 

1 - Welcome sinners and dine with them. Jesus faced criticism for mingling with the "wrong crowd," but his response was to celebrate repentance. Let's not be overly selective or judgmental in whom we share a meal with.  

2 - Pursue the lost wholeheartedly. Just as Jesus emphasized the value of lost sheep and coins, we should pursue those around us who are lost. How hard do we fight to keep our jobs? How much effort do we put into containers to hold our water, gas in the gas tank, or videos to watch on our iPhone? Our efforts in helping lost souls should match or exceed what we invest in other things of value to us.

3 - Check jealousy and resentment at the door. Seeing others as people, not obstacles, is crucial. Let's not let ambition or jealousy hinder celebrating others' successes. Celebrate others’ wins, do not dwell on their losses. 

4 - Party with gusto! We can’t celebrate sitting still in the quiet. Imagine rejoicing in the presence of angels—so much action and communal celebration. Let's actively recognize those living out God's will and share their stories.

When a lost soul finds its way, heaven celebrates. Let's join in the celebration!

Prayer: Holy God, we acknowledge Your pure and original excellence, contrasting it with the sin that causes us to fall short. In communion with those around us, we celebrate loudly, recognizing our own shortcomings and lifting them up as symbols of Your hopeful path of salvation. May Your magnetic grace continue to draw the lost to You, guiding them toward the true peace and joy that only You can provide. Amen.

About the Author
Cale Pritchett

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