In newsrooms and newspapers all around the world today, a remarkable tale is unfolding, one about a sheep affectionately known as ‘the loneliest sheep.’ About two years ago, in the Scottish Highlands, a sheep named Fiona found herself in an incredibly challenging predicament. Fiona somehow ended up at the base of an exceedingly steep cliff, stuck and stranded, with no way to find her way back home. Climbing back up the cliff was an impossible feat, so she remained there, isolated and alone.
It was a chance encounter with a lady who happened to spot Fiona during her kayak excursion two years ago that first brought attention to Fiona’s situation. At the time, the passerby didn’t think much of it, assuming Fiona would eventually make her way home. However, when she revisited the location recently, she was astonished to find Fiona still in the same predicament.
they were content to leave her where she was.
Numerous efforts were made to secure Fiona’s return, but many agencies were unable to assist, citing various reasons. Some even knew of Fiona’s existence but felt she wasn’t in immediate danger, they were content to leave her where she was. Eventually, action was taken and Fiona was rescued. Despite the complexity of the rescue and the treacherous cliff, the team was resolute in their determination to bring the lost sheep home.
Almost every Corps has one or two … perhaps more!
This story stirred thoughts of our own lost sheep, our ‘Fiona’s, if you will. Almost every Corps has one or two … perhaps more! Those who have drifted away from our Corps unnoticed or departed, with their absence noted but without further inquiry. From the outside looking in, they might seem fine, and we appear content to leave them where they are. However, is that in line with the heart of the Good Shepherd? Remember, Jesus was so moved by the plight of the one lost sheep that He was willing to leave the ninety-nine (see Luke 15:4) to bring the lost one home.
…they might want to return, but the distance seems daunting…
Consider if there might be a ‘Fiona’ within your Corps, waiting … hoping for you to reach out. A simple phone call, visit, or a thoughtful message can make all the difference. Just like Fiona, they might want to return, but the distance seems daunting, the path too steep, and the journey too challenging for them to do alone. Perhaps, they are simply waiting for you to extend your hand. Won’t you reach out and make that call or visit? Bring them back to where they belong, bring them home.