I Am Indispensable

When I was still green in the workplace, wise people I looked up to would always advise me,  “Nobody is indispensable.”

They were teaching me not to think too highly of myself or act like a diva, because there is always someone out there who can take my place. It was a sure-fire way of bursting one’s bubble.

After I became a boss myself, I would parrot those words for swell-headed juniors.

These days, however, many years after leaving the workplace for good, my mind has made a u-turn, “I am indispensable.”

This change-of-mindset began when our pastor delivered the message about a parable familiar to many, "The Lost Sheep."

The shepherd had 100 sheep. One day, one was lost. He immediately left the 99 and went looking for it. When he found the lost sheep, he carried it on his shoulder and brought it home. He was so happy everyone rejoiced with him. (Matthew 18:10-14)

Why would the shepherd bother looking for just one ordinary sheep? He had 99 anyway, so minus one should not have made any difference. Or, he could have easily bought a new sheep. But no, he went out looking for the lost one—and didn’t stop till he found it.

Why?

Because that’s the kind of Shepherd our God is. He doesn't wait for anyone to call for help; He knows when one needs help, is lost, and so he initiates the search.

Why?

Because standards of the world are different from God’s. His lost sheep is precious, there is not one like it. 

It is indispensable!

God tells us through this parable that every person—and that includes you and me—created by Him is special and irreplaceable. He looks for us when we stray so we could complete His family.

"He is a seeking God," our pastor stressed. The shepherd wanted the lost sheep back because it belonged in his care and he longed to care for him like he cared for all the others.

That's how God treasures a wretch like me, I muse whenever I come across this parable today; it makes me tear up. His grace saves me and takes me safely home.

Reflection: On the cross, Jesus did His best for me. Have I done my best for Him? Or, have I even tried?

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