Luke 19:10 (KJV): “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

ABSTRACT

The article delves into the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin from Luke 15, illustrating God’s relentless pursuit and joy in reclaiming lost souls, contrasting divine mercy with human judgment, and urging compassion in reaching out to others.

PHARISEES’ GRUMBLE GALORE!

The air crackled with anticipation, a holy hush amidst the dusty lanes of Judea. Yet, this sacred stillness was soon punctuated by a different kind of murmur, a low grumble that spoke volumes about the human heart’s capacity for judgment. Luke 15 opens with a scene both tender and telling: the socially ostracized, the tax collectors and those labeled as sinners, were drawn to the very presence of the Saviour, eager to hear His words. This act of seeking, this yearning for something more, stood in stark contrast to the reaction it provoked from the self-proclaimed guardians of righteousness. “And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.” Their discontent wasn’t merely about social decorum; it struck at the heart of their theological understanding, or rather, their lack thereof. As Ellen G. White eloquently notes, “As the ‘publicans and sinners’ gathered about Christ, the rabbis expressed their displeasure. ‘This man receiveth sinners,’ they said, ‘and eateth with them.’ By this accusation they insinuated that Christ liked to associate with the sinful and vile, and was insensible to their wickedness” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 185, 1900). Their disappointment with Jesus ran deep, questioning why One who claimed such a lofty character didn’t align with their methods, their social circles, their perceived superiority. They expected a prophet to mirror their indifference towards those they deemed unworthy, failing to grasp the very essence of divine compassion (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 185, 1900). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. Jesus loves sinners and died for them. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this with divine mercy. “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy” (Psalm 103:8, KJV). “The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to give attention to others who were longing for a heavenly light. In the very act of turning away from them, Jesus presented that awful truth which the priests and rulers so much dreaded to have the people believe,—that they had no abiding in the word of God, because they did not know God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 275, 1898). “The Pharisees had gathered close about Jesus as He answered the question of the scribes. Now He put a question to them: ‘Doth not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? and ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?’” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 59, 1905). This initial scene lays bare the chasm between human judgment and divine mercy, setting the stage for Jesus’ profound response. But how does the Saviour respond to such disdain?

Faced with this chorus of disdain, Jesus didn’t engage in a direct rebuttal. Instead, with the wisdom that only the Son of God possessed, He employed a method that would resonate far beyond that moment, a means to make the profound truths of salvation easily comprehensible. “And he spake this parable unto them, saying.” He turned to the power of story, to narratives drawn from the very fabric of their daily lives, to illuminate the depths of God’s love and the urgency of His saving work. This wasn’t a condescending simplification but a masterful act of teaching, meeting people where they were to elevate their understanding. Just as the prophet Isaiah used vivid imagery to convey his messages, Jesus utilized parables to cut through the layers of prejudice and tradition, appealing directly to the heart. Sr. White explains that “Christ the Great Teacher gave much of His instruction as He walked with His disciples through the hills and valleys of Palestine or rested by the lake or river. In His parable teaching He linked divine truth with common things and incidents, as may be found in the experiences of the shepherd, the builder, the tiller of the soil, the traveler, and the homemaker” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 17, 1900). This approach underscores the accessibility of God’s truth; it wasn’t confined to scholarly debates but was woven into the everyday realities of human existence. Jesus teaches through parables to make divine truths relatable. “And he began to teach them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine” (Mark 4:2, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this method. “I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp” (Psalm 49:4, KJV). “Christ’s favorite theme was the paternal tenderness and abundant grace of God; He dwelt much upon the holiness of His character and His law; He presented Himself to the people as the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let these be the themes of Christ’s ministers. Present the truth as it is in Jesus. Make plain the requirements of the law and the gospel” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 301, 1885). “Christ’s teaching, like His sympathies, embraced the world. Never can there be a circumstance of life, a crisis in human experience, which has not been anticipated in His teaching, and for which its principles have not a lesson. The Prince of teachers, His words will be found a guide to His co-workers till the end of time” (Education, p. 81, 1903). But what does this divine pursuit look like in the life of a shepherd?

SHEPHERD’S LOST LAMB LEGEND!

The first parable Jesus unveiled was a tale of a shepherd and his flock, an image intimately familiar to his agrarian audience. “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?” The question itself carries an inherent logic, a sense of responsibility that resonates even today. How many sheep had gone astray? The verse explicitly states, “if he lose one of them.” This seemingly small number, a mere one out of a hundred, becomes the focal point of the shepherd’s unwavering attention. Sr. White emphasizes the profound significance of this single lost sheep: “In the parable the shepherd goes out to search for one sheep—the very least that can be numbered. So if there had been but one lost soul, Christ would have died for that one” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 187, 1900). This highlights the immeasurable value of each individual in God’s sight. Just as a shepherd wouldn’t dismiss the loss of even one sheep, God’s love extends to every single soul that has wandered away. God values each soul immensely. “Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?” (Luke 12:6, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this care. “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father” (Matthew 10:29, KJV). “There is nothing more precious in the sight of God than His ministers who go forth into the waste places of the earth to sow the seeds of truth, looking forward to the harvest. None can estimate the value of such a work. Christ says, ‘He that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together’” (Evangelism, p. 56, 1946). “The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 18, 1923).

The narrative continues, delving into the condition of this straying creature. Was the lost sheep able to find its way back to the fold alone? Did the sheep even know it was lost? The answer, according to Sr. White, paints a picture of utter helplessness. “The sheep that has strayed from the fold is the most helpless of all creatures. It must be sought for by the shepherd, for it can not find its way back. So with the soul that has wandered away from God; he is as helpless as the lost sheep, and unless divine love come to his rescue, he could never find his way back to God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 187, 1900). This starkly illustrates humanity’s dependence on God’s initiative for salvation. The lost cannot save themselves; divine intervention is paramount. Furthermore, Sr. White clarifies the sheep’s awareness: “The lost sheep knows that it is lost. It has left the shepherd and the flock, and it can not recover itself. It represents those who realize that they are separated from God, and who are in a cloud of perplexity, in humiliation, and sorely tempted” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 193, 1900). This speaks to a segment of humanity that feels the weight of their separation from the divine, those who are conscious of their spiritual destitution and long for reconciliation. This realization of lostness is a crucial step towards seeking the Shepherd’s care. Humanity remains helpless without God’s help. “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another” (Titus 3:3, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this helplessness. “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6, KJV). “The condition of the erring is often represented in the Scriptures by the lost sheep. Every soul who has lost moral power is given over to unjust, merciless Satan, and if he shall recover himself out of the snare of Satan, he must be helped, strengthened, by his brethren, for he has no moral power to work with on his own account” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 368, 1855). “The soul that has wandered away from God becomes weak in moral power, and gives himself up to the service of Satan, as did Saul to the witch of Endor. When once the human agent places himself under the control of Satan, he is worked by supernatural agencies that are under the sway of the evil one. He is as helpless to resist the power that controls him as was Adam and Eve in Eden to resist the words Satan spoke through the serpent” (The Signs of the Times, October 8, 1894).

The parable then shifts to the shepherd’s actions and his attitude. What does he do with the ninety-nine sheep? What is his disposition towards the one that is lost? Luke 15:4 tells us he “leave[s] the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go[es] after that which is lost, until he find it.” This act of leaving the secure flock underscores the priority given to the one in peril. His attitude isn’t one of annoyance or begrudging duty but of determined love. This mirrors the heart of God, as the prophet Ezekiel declared, “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment” (Ezekiel 34:16, KJV). God, our ultimate Shepherd, actively seeks the lost, offering healing and restoration to the broken and weak. The contrasting treatment of the “fat and strong” suggests a divine judgment on those who are complacent and neglectful of the flock’s needs. This relentless pursuit and compassionate attitude define the very nature of divine love. God actively pursues the lost. “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick” (Ezekiel 34:16, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this pursuit. “And I will seek them out, as a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day” (Ezekiel 34:12, KJV). “God is a shepherd that never sleeps, never slumbers. He is ever watching over His flock, and He knows every sheep by name” (The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1890). “The Lord Jesus Christ is represented as the Shepherd who seeks and saves that which is lost. He leaves the ninety and nine in the fold and goes after the lost sheep until He finds it” (The Review and Herald, March 30, 1886).

The narrative progresses to the reward of this arduous search. Is the work of searching ultimately rewarded? Luke 15:5-7 provides a resounding affirmation. “And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; 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.” The shepherd’s joy isn’t a quiet satisfaction but an exuberant celebration, shared with his community. Sr. White beautifully elaborates on this: “When the straying sheep is at last brought home, the shepherd’s gratitude finds expression in melodious songs of rejoicing. He calls upon his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ So when a wanderer is found by the great Shepherd of the sheep, heaven and earth unite in thanksgiving and rejoicing” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 189, 1900). This earthly joy finds its echo in the heavenly realm. The repentance of even one sinner sparks a greater celebration in heaven than the steadfastness of ninety-nine who have not strayed. This heavenly rejoicing underscores the profound value God places on the return of every lost soul. Heaven rejoices over repentant sinners. “I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you” (Ezekiel 36:29, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this joy. “Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof” (Psalm 96:11, KJV). “There is rejoicing in heaven when the sinner repents and is converted. The whole redeemed host raise the triumphant shout, Glory to God, and to the Lamb that was slain to redeem fallen man! The angels rejoice with intense holy joy as they see that the plan of salvation has succeeded so well in the salvation of man” (The Signs of the Times, December 8, 1887). “When a sinner repents, heaven rejoices. The lost is found, the dead is made alive. The grace of Christ draws men from their sins, from their impenitence, from their pride and self-sufficiency. The power of Christ is employed in raising men up from lowliness and degradation, to holiness and purity” (The Review and Herald, October 16, 1883).

The lost sheep, however, represents more than just the individual sinner. Sr. White reveals a broader application: “By the lost sheep Christ represents not only the individual sinner, but the one world that has apostatized, and has been ruined by sin. Christ the loved Commander in the heavenly courts, stooped from His high estate, laid aside the glory that He had with the Father, in order to save the one lost world” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 190, 1900). This expands the scope of the parable to encompass the entire fallen planet. Just as the shepherd sought the single lost sheep, Christ’s mission was to seek and save this one world that had strayed from God’s fold. This understanding deepens our appreciation for the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice and His unwavering commitment to the redemption of humanity. Christ sacrificed for the world. “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:17, KJV). Scripture further illustrates this sacrifice. “He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2, KJV). “Christ came to this world to save sinners. He did not come to condemn them, but to save them. He came to seek and to save that which was lost” (The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1890). “The sacrifice of Christ as an atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster. In order to be rightly understood and appreciated, every truth in the Word of God, from Genesis to Revelation, must be studied in the light that streams from the cross of Calvary” (The Signs of the Times, February 17, 1904). But what happens when the lost are unaware of their plight?

COIN HUNT HAVOC!

Jesus, not content with one illustration, offered another parable, this time focusing on a different kind of loss. Where was the piece of silver lost? What was necessary to find it again? Luke 15:8 tells us, “Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?” The coin was lost not in the vast wilderness but within the confines of her own home. To find it, the woman had to take deliberate action: light a candle, sweep the house, and search with diligence until her efforts were rewarded. This suggests that some are lost not by wandering far away but by being misplaced within familiar surroundings, perhaps even within the structures meant for spiritual nourishment. The lost need diligent search even in familiar places. “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:25, KJV). Scripture further illustrates diligent seeking. “Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6, KJV). “Christ came to seek and to save the lost. He leaves the ninety and nine, and searches for the one that is straying. He finds it when it is wounded, starving, and ready to die. With warm, grateful tears, He gathers it in His arms, and bears it to the fold. The lost is found, the wandering is restored” (The Signs of the Times, November 17, 1887). “The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 18, 1923).

Does the lost coin know its condition? Sr. White provides a clear answer: “The lost coin represents those who are lost in trespasses and sins, but who have no sense of their condition. They are estranged from God, but they know it not. . . . They are to be sought for, that they may be brought back to God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 193–194, 1900). This contrasts with the lost sheep’s awareness of its predicament. The lost coin symbolizes those who are spiritually apathetic, unaware of their separation from God and the peril their souls are in. They may be physically near to the things of God but lack a genuine connection or understanding of their spiritual state. This highlights the need for a different approach in reaching those who are lost in this manner, requiring an awakening of their spiritual senses. Many remain unaware of their lost state. “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God” (Romans 10:3, KJV). Scripture further illustrates spiritual unawareness. “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17, KJV). “The coin, though lying among dust and rubbish, is a piece of silver still. Its owner seeks it because it is of value. So every soul, however degraded by sin, is in God’s sight accounted precious” (The Signs of the Times, July 19, 1899). “There are those who, though professedly serving God, are witnessing against Him. To them the message to the Laodicean church is given. Christ says to them, ‘I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot’” (The Review and Herald, August 28, 1894).

The parable concludes with the woman’s discovery and her subsequent joy. Is it worth while to search for the lost piece of silver? Luke 15:9 answers emphatically, “And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.” The effort invested in the search is undoubtedly worthwhile, as evidenced by the woman’s elation and her desire to share her good fortune. Just as with the lost sheep, the finding of the lost coin brings cause for communal celebration. This reinforces the idea that every soul is precious in God’s sight, and the recovery of even one brings joy not only to the finder but also to the wider community, mirroring the joy in the presence of angels over one sinner that repents. Searching for the lost yields great reward. “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, KJV). Scripture further illustrates the worth of seeking. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7, KJV). “The Lord rejoices over His people. He delights in them. He is gracious unto them. He will beautify His church with the fruits of righteousness” (The Signs of the Times, January 4, 1883). “When the lost sheep is found, heaven and earth unite in rejoicing and thanksgiving” (The Review and Herald, October 6, 1885). But how does this divine love compel action from us?

God’s love isn’t a distant, theoretical concept but a dynamic force actively engaged in the restoration of His creation. The parables vividly illustrate a love that takes initiative, a love that pursues relentlessly, and a love that rejoices profoundly in the return of the lost. This divine affection doesn’t wait for the lost to find their way back; instead, it actively seeks them out, whether they are aware of their lost condition or not. Sr. White beautifully summarizes this: “In redemption God has revealed His love in sacrifice, a sacrifice so broad and deep and high that it is immeasurable. ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life’” (The Signs of the Times, January 27, 1904). This unparalleled act of giving underscores the immeasurable value God places on humanity and His unwavering desire for our salvation. God’s love actively pursues. “The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17, KJV). Scripture further illustrates active love. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10, KJV). “The love of God is something more than a mere negation; it is a positive and active principle, a living spring, ever flowing to bless others. If the love of Christ dwells in us, we shall not only cherish no hatred toward our fellows, but we shall seek in every way to manifest love toward them” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 58, 1896). “The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Love is power. Divine love has been stirred to its unfathomable depths for the sake of men, and angels marvel to behold in the recipients of so great love a mere surface gratitude” (The Review and Herald, June 26, 1894).

Recognizing the depth and active nature of God’s love compels a response from us. We are called to mirror that love in our own lives, actively participating in the work of seeking and saving the lost. This involves a commitment to living according to His will, reflecting His character in our interactions, and diligently working to bring others into the fold. As Sr. White pleads, “Those who realize the result of the sin of transgression of God’s law… should in deep humility accept the righteousness of Christ” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 314, 1900). Our responsibility is to acknowledge our dependence on Him, to humbly accept His grace, and to become instruments of His love in the world. Furthermore, we are called to remain steadfast in our devotion to His revealed truth, as Joseph Bates emphasized the importance of adhering to God’s pattern without addition or subtraction (Sanctuary, Bates, 1850). Our lives should be a testament to His transforming power. We respond by mirroring God’s love. “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets” (Matthew 7:12, KJV). Scripture further illustrates our duty. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, KJV). “We must educate ourselves to speak the language of Canaan, to sing the songs of Zion. By the spirit and the understanding we must show forth the praises of Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light” (The Review and Herald, November 27, 1900). “The grace of Christ must be woven into every phase of the character. His grace works in sanctification. It is the love of God received into the heart that makes lasting impression. Let Christ live in us, a wellspring of life, springing up unto everlasting life” (The Signs of the Times, October 10, 1892).

The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin provide a clear mandate for our interactions with those around us. Just as the shepherd tirelessly searched for the one and the woman diligently sought her lost coin, we are called to actively seek out our neighbors who are lost, whether they are aware of their condition or not. Our task isn’t to judge or condemn but to extend the same compassion and persistent love that God has shown us. Sr. White writes, “They are to be sought for, that they may be brought back to God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 194, 1900). This requires us to look beyond outward appearances, to recognize the inherent value in every soul, and to make earnest efforts to connect them with the divine Shepherd. This love should be fervent and cover a multitude of sins, reflecting the forgiving nature of Christ (1 Peter 4:8, KJV). Our actions should be motivated by a desire for their restoration, echoing the joy in heaven over every soul that returns to God. We seek neighbors with compassion. “Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19, KJV). Scripture further illustrates compassionate seeking. “And of some have compassion, making a difference” (Jude 1:22, KJV). “We are to seek for the lost sheep of God’s fold. We are to be Christ’s representatives, showing forth His love to the world” (The Signs of the Times, March 21, 1892). “The Lord Jesus Christ has infinite tenderness for those whom He has purchased at the cost of His own sufferings. The souls of His people are very precious in His sight” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 566, 1875). But how can we join in heaven’s celebration over the found?

HEAVEN’S TRIUMPHANT RETURN!

The Pharisees murmured, their hearts closed to the very individuals Jesus came to save. But Christ spoke, and in His words, Heaven itself sang a song of relentless love and boundless mercy. This is the enduring rhythm of Luke 15, a rhythm that continues to beat in a world still filled with murmuring hearts and wandering souls. The Shepherd’s search continues, the woman’s lamp still shines, and the angels’ chorus of rejoicing echoes whenever a lost one is found. May our hearts not resonate with the Pharisees’ complaint but join the celestial anthem: “Rejoice with me, for I have found that which was lost.” Let us be active participants in this divine search, diligently sweeping the corners of our communities and our hearts, and singing with the heavens at the joyous return of every lost soul. Heaven’s last call isn’t a shout of condemnation but a whisper of love, a gentle knocking at the door of every heart (Revelation 3:20, KJV), a light illuminating the darkness, and a celebration over the one. Amen. Heaven rejoices over the found. “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh” (Luke 21:28, KJV). Scripture further illustrates rejoicing. “Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth” (1 Chronicles 16:31, KJV). “There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. The Lord rejoices over His church with singing” (The Signs of the Times, March 11, 1886). “When the lost is found, there is rejoicing in heaven. The heavenly harps are swept by angelic fingers, and the theme of redemption swells through the arches of heaven” (The Review and Herald, July 3, 1888).

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10, KJV)

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Feature	Lost Sheep	Lost Coin
Representation	Sinner aware of separation from God	Sinner unaware of separation from God
Condition	Helpless, wandering, knows it is lost	Immobile, inert, doesn’t know it is lost
Action Taken	Shepherd actively seeks	Woman actively seeks
Emotion Involved	Shepherd rejoices upon finding	Woman rejoices upon finding
Heavenly Parallel	Joy in heaven over one sinner repenting	Joy in the presence of angels over repentance