Parable of the Lost Sheep

And he spake unto them this parable, saying, What man of you, having a hundred sheep, and having lost one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?  And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and his neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that even so there shall be joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine righteous persons, who need no repentance”.

I saw him from a distance. What was in his arm was unmistakable. I wondered why such an elderly gentleman, who walked with a stoop, be carrying a a goat calf instead of making it walk. Then I understood, the calf would not follow him unless the mother was also along side them. When he was within earshot, he confirmed that the mother had wandered off from where the flock was grazing and the calf followed. These goats were probably his most valuable possessions and he was not about to lose one, let alone two.

12 thoughts on “Parable of the Lost Sheep

    • Thank you Orlando. I was in an unfamiliar neighborhood and I was starting to get discouraged as it was particular hot and humid that day, then I ran into him. The day was not a complete lost.

  1. What a beautiful photo essay and how appropriate to begin with the parable. For ten years (many years ago) my husband and I raised dairy goats and were committed to all that was required in this cottage industry. I can relate to this man’s angst in not losing them.Thank you for sharing and for having your camera…right place, right time.

    • The parable was the first thing I thought of as I was looking at these pictures. Although I am by no means a man of faith, I can see how it’s message can be applied to how one lives one’s life. Thanks for dropping by.

  2. I admire your sharp eyes on things. My weakness is photographing people. I must say you are so good at it. Know what? I burst into tears 😦 after reading the post. The photos were able to put across the story clearly. Kudos!

    • You never know what stories will unfold before you while out for a walk. Give it a try sometimes, start in your neighborhood and other familiar places. It’s always a pleasure to share a story.

    • Thank you Maf. Unless I’m doing environmental portraiture, I usually stick to monochrome. Besides, I’m not very good at color corrections.

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