I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. — John 10:11
Many years ago, I started studying the life of a shepherd. It’s a common comparison used in the Bible and I wanted to understand more about how they worked and lived. It is far from a glamorous lifestyle. A shepherd didn’t have the nicest clothes or the nicest things this world had to offer. Instead, the shepherd was a life of basic necessity.
The shepherd’s life revolved around his flock. They went everywhere together. As they journeyed, the shepherd would watch closely over the flock. At every turn, the shepherd is watching for danger, trying to prevent anything that could harm the flock. As diligent as the shepherd was, there were still times when danger would present. Perhaps an animal tried to sneak in and steal one of the flock.
In those times of danger, the shepherd would put their own life at risk to protect the life of the flock. There was no thought that it was simply a number of the flock. These belonged to the shepherd. He knew them and had a personal relationship with them. He had no hesitation in risking his own life for them.
When I consider the life of a shepherd and what Jesus did for me, it’s easy to see the comparison. He knew me, and even though I’m far from perfect, He willingly chose to give His life for me.
He constantly watches over me, cares for me, and protects me. Even when dangers rise up in life, He is there. What a Shepherd He is! We don’t have to worry about tomorrow because our Shepherd has it under control. Today, take comfort in the Shepherd. He knows you and what your struggles are, and He is watching over you and protecting you each step of the way.
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