When Your Cost-Benefit Analysis Does Not Make Sense

Daily Devotional – Thursday, April 1, 2021

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost

Luke 19:10 (NIV)

In business, a cost-benefit analysis is a decision-making tool that entails weighing the potential rewards of an action against the cost of taking that action. In other words, if the cost of producing an object is more than the profit you expect, that is not good business.

In the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the shepherd did not apply cost-benefit analysis. Ninety-nine sheep were safely in the fold during the evening headcount. Only one sheep had strayed.

If the shepherd was a businessperson, he would have reasoned; what if the ninety-nine I leave here in the open are stolen or killed by wild animals?  What if I die while going after a mere sheep?

Because of His great love for the lost sheep, however, he risked his life. After searching for hours, he returned home with great joy. He told his friends, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.” (Luke 15:6).  

Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The earth is the lost sheep. When Adam and Eve plunged us into sin, Christ left the comfort of heaven to save the planet, even though He had many other unfallen planets.

At a personal level, you are the lost sheep. Christ sacrificed His life for you out of His great love. He took your place on the cross that you might live with Him forever. He died your death that you might live His life.

Today, take time to meditate on the fact that, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). Christ engaged in reverse cost-benefit analysis for your salvation.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me unconditionally.