Luke I
Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. (Luke 15:7 ESV)
Numbers
Democracy is a great concept in political development.
Balanced budgets are a great concept in financial management.
Tape measures are a great concept in building construction.
But one set of numbers is surprising. The tally total in heaven does not cause the reaction we would expect.
Heaven rejoices more over one returning prodigal son, than the joy of ninety-nine who did not wander (as far).
Now, to be clear, we are comparing infinite joy over the one… and ninety-nine times infinite joy over the ninety-nine. And infinite does not multiply… so in a sense, the total joy is the same.
But somehow, the returning ONE results in more joy!
I actually believe that most, if not all, of us wander. Some more prominently than others.
And when we return, heaven rejoices.
Heaven rejoiced, rejoices, and will rejoice over the salvation of every child of God, clinging to Christ.