Luke 15:1-10

The Gospel reading today was a great reminder to everyone connected to a school, whether they are students, staff, parents or parish. The tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to Jesus and were noticed by the scribes and Pharisees who commented, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."

Jesus explained his approach with the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd with a flock of 100 sheep will, upon losing one, leave the other 99 while he seeks the lost sheep. Upon finding the lost sheep he rejoices with friends and neighbors because he has found the sheep that was lost. A school always has some lost sheep too. While most of the students do a responsible job there is often the occassional one who steps out of line behaviorally, academically or spiritually. While it would be easy to point the finger at the lost student and simply criticize him or his upbringing, our school is much better at identifying his difficulties and reeling him back in before it is too late.

Confronting a student with what needs to improve and bringing his parents into the process is important. Bringing them together with staff to solve a problem and facilitate success provides more eyes and ears that let the student know they can improve with the help of adults who believe in acting as Christ would. Adding prayer and the sacraments, especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist, bring Christ's healing power to the situation.

When a student responds and improves there is rejoicing, relief and a satisfied feeling by everyone involved. When the parable tells us there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance it is not a scorekeeping situation. The ninety-nine already receive great rewards and grace. The ninety-nine must remember that goodness is a reward in itself and be gracious and happy that another person has joined their ranks.

I am grateful for the role our staff takes in being good shepherds. They care deeply about their students and are ever vigilant for those who struggle. They are equally good about returning them to the flock. That's why we have such a wonderful flock of students at Saint Joseph's School.