Lost and Found
These are two powerful antonyms that can bring both comfort and discomfort physically, mentally and spiritually. Webster defines "lost" as a state of being unable to find the way, lacking assurance or confidence, helpless; whereas "found" in contrast is past tense for the word “find” which Webster defines as to come upon by searching, to discover by study or experiment. Illustrations are oftentimes helpful; consider the following.
Physically: The common door key or automobile key are good examples for the physical aspect of "lost and found". Your ability or rather inability to go somewhere and be there perhaps on time is totally stalled if you "lost the key". Irrational exuberance may be your expression or emotional reaction when the lost key is found.
Mentally: For some people the mental aspect may involve a quiz or test on an advanced calculus or physics class studying mathematical formulae that exceed all cognitive reasoning. The hard to figure out problems may bring the brain to a "lost status". However, vast relief may set in when your after-class tutor leads you to "get it" and figure out (find) the solutions to these difficult problems.
Spiritually: The Holy Word of God succinctly addresses the spiritual aspect of a "lost" or "found" condition of the soul. Romans 3:23 states: "for all have sinned, and come short of the glory (or perfection) of God". The Bible also says in Luke 19:10 that Jesus came to seek and save that which was lost. Even the Old Testament in Isaiah 53:6 makes a lost sheep’s condition clear: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him (self) the iniquity of us all".
In the Parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15, Jesus said: "(the shepherd) when he hath found it (the lost sheep), he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing". So why rejoice? "For I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance".
Conclusion: The Substance of "Lost and Found"
"Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ , who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’sake". II Corinthians 4:1-5
To find out more about the gospel that can lead you from a "lost" condition to a "Found" or Saved condition, e-mail us at: vonderharr@omniutah.com.