As educators, many of us have felt the pull toward that one student—the one who hides in the bathroom, refuses to work, lashes out, or avoids school altogether. On the surface, they seem angry, unmotivated, or unreachable. But what if we looked deeper? What if we saw someone who is not defiant, but lost?

Ten years ago, one of those students came into my life—a middle schooler with over 30 discipline incidents, frequent suspensions, and a history of interactions with law enforcement. I came armed with strategies, research, and a heart ready to connect. But by the second week, I realized I wasn’t enough on my own. This student wanted nothing to do with me, and every step forward felt like two steps back.

Many saw this student as unworthy or unreachable. But I was reminded of Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep:

“Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home… I tell you that in the same way, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:3-7, NIV

Jesus teaches us the value of pursuing the lost—not out of duty, but with joy. Over time, this student became more than a disciplinary challenge. They became a reminder of the incredible healing that can happen when we choose to see a child not for who they are now, but for who God has designed them to be.

Recently, this student reconnected with me (Facebook—go figure). Seeing the transformation in her life, hearing the hope in her voice, and knowing how far she has come has been nothing short of a miracle. It has been a renewed reminder for me to keep seeking the lost sheep God places in my path.

Who is the “lost sheep” in your life right now?

How can you lean into God’s wisdom and strength to see them through His eyes?
What steps will you take this week to pursue, connect, and protect the sheep He’s placed in your care?

Keep going. Sometimes, the most challenging students are the ones who reflect God’s greatest work.