Check out this (ten-minute) video from filmmaker Jesse Rosten. It’s worth your time and very entertaining, but also a great metaphor if you’re preaching on a certain parable.

Then, after watching, read below for a new take on the story.

This video reminds The Burner of the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Mt. 18:12–14; Lk. 15:3–7). What can stop Jesus from finding the lost lamb? What determination does it take to seek out something lost? It’s just a silly blanket, after all, and probably not worth a most-likely fruitless search for a green Honda Element. And what does one lamb matter to the shepherd that has 98 bleating others? It is meaningful to TB that the shopping cart doesn’t make noise to get attention; it simply waits nearby to be noticed. Jesus stands at the door and knocks politely. The shopping cart puts itself in a position to be noticed.

While this story is great to illustrate Jesus’ love for his sheep, what about your own flock? Maybe there’s a member of your church who has been absent for awhile? Go track him down. Maybe it’s been weeks since you talked to your oldest friend. Call her. Maybe your teenager has spent the last three weeks in his room. Go knock on the door. Maybe your spouse spends free time reading blogs online. Go strike up a conversation.

With our busy lives, there is likely one sheep in your flock who needs a connection with you. When you try to make that connection, make like the cart (and Jesus) and pursue relentlessly, but gently. If a sentient shopping cart can do it, so can you!