THE SHEPHERD AND THE SHEEP
Debbie Nelson
Today’s Scripture: “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me.” John 10:14, ESV
Theme: At Easter, we recognize Jesus as the One who shows us that God is Jehova Raah (the LORD is our Shepherd).
THE SHEPHERD’S ROLE
It’s the shepherd’s job to watch over his sheep. Sheep are vulnerable to thieves and wolves. They may wander from the flock and get lost. Sheep are defenseless and rely solely on their shepherd to protect them from all dangers. There may even be times where the shepherd finds himself in a precarious situation; he may even end up giving his life to protect his flock.
THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Jesus isn’t just a good shepherd; He is the Good Shepherd. He knows each of His sheep personally. He knows their thoughts and needs. He knows their struggles and challenges. He guides them and nurtures them. They, in turn, know Him. They know Jesus will never leave them nor forsake them. They can trust the direction of the Good Shepherd rather than follow false paths.
LOSE SOMETHING?
Have you ever gone someplace new and when you left, you couldn’t remember where you parked? If your car happens to be in a parking garage, you really have your work cut out for you! As your search drags on, your panic levels rise. Your heart feels like it’s going to pound right out of your chest. Finally, you see it! You’ve found your car! It may take you a few extra moments to catch your breath and lower your blood pressure. You are just so relieved that you found your car.
Jesus feels that same way about us! When we stray or get lost, He will never stop searching for us. He will continue calling our names in the hope we return to Him. If you’re not ready to be found, He will wait for you, as long as it takes.
I’M NOT GOOD ENOUGH
Maybe the reason you strayed from Jesus is because you don’t feel worthy. You’ve done things you are not proud to admit. You’re far from perfect. But guess what? Jesus already knows everything about you, and He still loves you! You are one of His children. He will always seek you out, in good times and the bad. All you have to do is listen and respond.
THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
Still not convinced that Jesus is the Good Shepherd? He gave up His life for us on the cross! While He could have easily saved Himself, He chose not to. Why? “...The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28, NIV). Through His willing sacrifice, He made salvation possible for all who come to Him in faith. Jesus also made it clear that He didn’t just lay down His life for the Jews. “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd” (John 10:16, NIV).
Make It Personal: Do you know Jesus as the Good Shepherd? Think about all the times He helped you when you strayed from His path. How many times has He protected you in circumstances you weren’t even aware of? He is there for us in every aspect of our lives, whether we are aware of Him or not. Remember that when you next think He has forgotten about you or when you are facing a difficult situation and think He has not heard your cries for help. He is, has been, and always will be your Good Shepherd.
If you don’t yet know Jesus, maybe today is the day to respond to His call. Stop wandering and start following Him as your Savior and as your Good Shepherd.
Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for knowing me personally. Thank You for Your love and protection in everything I do, even when I’m not aware of Your guiding hand. Remind me during those difficult times that You are still by my side, watching over me like the Good Shepherd You are. (If you’ve never trusted Jesus before, simply say this prayer.) “Jesus, I choose You as my Good Shepherd. Forgive me, lead me, and help me know Your voice. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
Read: Psalm 23; 2 Timothy 2:19; Isaiah 40:11; 1 Peter 2:25
Weekly Memory Verse: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures...” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, ESV