“Sheep and Shepherds”
Almost everyone, whether religious or not, has heard Psalm 23 because it’s quoted so frequently. In describing the Lord as shepherd, David wrote out of his own experience because he had spent his early years caring for sheep (I Samuel 16:10,11). Sheep are completely dependent on the shepherd for provision, guidance, and protection.
The New Testament calls Jesus the good shepherd (John 10:11); the great shepherd ((Hebrews 13:20); and the Chief Shepherd (I Peter 5:4). As the Lord is the good shepherd, so we are his sheep – not frightened passive animals, but obedient followers, wise enough to follow one who will lead us to the right places and in right ways.
When God created us, he gave us the matter of “free will.” This means we have the privilege of choosing what we will or will not do with our life. Sometimes our choices lead us into dark places, broken relationships, the bondage of sin, and afraid of being in a hopeless situation.
When lamb was lost, the shepherd didn’t rest until he found it and restored it to good health. We all are sheep and should be grateful the Lord, the great shepherd never gives up on us during the times we were lost. If you are away from God today and living a life of selfishness that now has you confused, lonely, and afraid, I promise you, the good shepherd knows where you are and is closer to you than you can imagine.
When the shepherds of the Bible found a lost, wandering, or wounded sheep, it had no choice. The shepherd would swoop it up and carry it to shelter and safety. Unlike the animal, the Lord Jesus, our good shepherd, calls our name and we decide on whether to accept his help or reject him. Wise is the person that allows him to rescue and lead them to a safe place.
Our shepherd knows the “green pastures” and “quiet waters” that will restore us. Rebelling against his leading is actually rebelling against our own best interest. Many people fear dying. Death casts a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We struggle with pain, suffering and disease, but strength and courage cannot overcome death. Only one person can bring us to the other side – the God of life, our shepherd. Because of the uncertainty of life, we should choose today to follow this shepherd who offers us eternal comfort.
Pastor Carnes
