“What man…having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one who is lost?” Luke 15:4. Jesus underscored the importance of every person to God with three stories about something lost – a sheep, a coin, and a son.  In each story, a person has lost something of great value.  When it is found, friends of and neighbors are called to celebrate and rejoice together.  The point is clear; We are all of great value to God, who offers us forgiveness and new life through Christ.  And He faithfully pursues us with His love and grace.  There is great joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.  Our value is measured not by what we have done but by what God has done for us.