GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
The Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin: Lk 15,1-10
Introduction: Lk 15,1-3
Verses 1 & 2 set the scene with a reminder of mounting conflict and controversy in previous chapters, most recently in 14,1. As for eating with sinners - see 5,30-32. Note how verse 1 follows on from 14,35. See also 11,28. How does this introduction prepare us for the three parables?
Verse 3 is a transition verse. It is worth noting how rarely Luke mentions Jesus by name - look between 14,3 and 17,13.
Look again at my response.
Lost Sheep and Lost Coin: Lk 15,4-10
The parable of the lost sheep has a parallel in Matthew, Mt 18,14. Same story, but with quite different purposes. To whom are the two versions addressed? What is the difference between Lk 15,5 and Mt 18,13? How has Luke expanded the parable?
This parable also has a strong Old Testament background: in Ps 23 and in particular Ezekiel 34, especially verses 1-6 and 11.
The parable of the woman and the lost coin is unique to Luke, but of course it is characteristic of Luke to pair male and female stories. Yet, compare with 2,25-38.
Make a list of what is common to the two parables. Above all, what are the key words in the two parables? What then are the differences? (Look at verse 5 and verse 8)
With that in mind, what is the difference between sheep and coins. How is leaving ninety nine sheep different to leaving nine coins?
Then consider how do these two parables prepare us for the one to follow.
Once more, look at my response.
The Sunday Reading
As I have mentioned, the whole chapter is read on the 24th Sunday of Ordinary Time.
The reading from the Old Testament is Exodus 32,7-11.13-14. An interesting choice of reading it seems to me. Why do you think verse 12 is omitted? I would suggest reflecting on its role especially in light of 15,1-2. At the same time, reflect upon what we learn about God from this reading.
Consider too how the responsorial psalm (from Psalm 51) contributes to the readings for this Sunday.
Look now at my response.
We are now ready to read about those lost sons, 15,11-32.