What captures my imagination more than anything from this day is the soggy ewe placed upon the sherpherd's shoulders with great care, tenderness, and purpose. I am keenly aware of the times in my life where I have been that lost sheep, stuck in the bog, and was found and rescued by the Shepherd. I am also very aware that I am not attentive to the cries of those who have wandered away and find themselves in a desperate way. But thinking about Jesus searching me out, pulling me out of my messes, and getting dirty in the process of rescuing me is leading me to be mindful of those in need. Mindful enough to take a risk, put my agenda for the day aside, and get messy in ministry to the lost and the hurting - one soggy ewe at a time.