The parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin portray to us the image of a merciful and compassionate God who always seeks out the lost and even celebrates the recovery of the lost. This is how God rejoices when the sinner repents. This is precisely the mission of Jesus and ours too!

Both parables tell us that if ordinary human persons would go to such extent to search for what is lost, how much more with God for the sake of His lost child - sinners and outcasts in our society today.

In the midst of so much of hatred, hostility and violence, we need to be bridges instead of barriers and obstacles so that we can proclaim God's mercy and forgiveness. (Lk. 15:11-32 - Parable of the Prodigal Son).

This is also what St. Paul says in the first reading. Each one of us has influence on others. Others especially the non-believers look at us closely and our actions which reflect who we are. Paul gave practical advice, focussed on assisting and challenging the communities to live as Christians with their lives modelled on the example of Jesus.