Who among us hasn’t felt lost or broken? We all feel that way sometimes and for many, the feelings happen more than just sometimes. We feel unappreciated and small. We are overwhelmed by the big things and little things that complicate our lives. We have too much to do at work. We have spouses who don’t understand us. We have children who can frustrate us. We have friends who can’t be counted on. We can be lost and those around us can be lost too.

Today’s readings offer hope and love and joy for those times when we feel that way. In the first reading from Ezekiel, God tells us he will search for us, his sheep, and make us safe. The 23rd Psalm repeats the shepherd image and tells us that

“Even though I walk in the dark valley
 I fear no evil; for you are at my side
with your rod and your staff
 that give me courage.”

The second reading from Romans reminds us that “the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.” Our hearts. As we are. Even when we are feeling lost or broken. Overwhelmed or frustrated. The reading tells us “But God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.”

 And Luke’s Gospel tells the parable of the man losing one of 100 sheep, goes to look for that one sheep and rejoices at finding it. God loves us and welcomes us as we are. He rejoices when we turn to him and repent. I am broken, but I am loved. God is with us, even in the dark valleys. He gives us the courage to do the right thing, to share that love that has been poured out into our hearts.