Our Good Shepherd
by Georgie Schuster
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He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young (Isaiah 40:11).
I grew up on a farm with sheep! I have fond memories of working with them, admittedly, from a child’s perspective. I loved shearing time and jumping in the wool bales (this was before the days of hydraulic presses), feeding the sheep and checking they always had water. We kept careful watch during lambing time. I loved watching lambs prance around happily in the paddocks and see how fast their tails shook as they drank from their mothers. There are other memories too.
While we loved and cared for our sheep, none of it really compares to the intimacy expressed in today’s Bible text. The connection between shepherd and sheep is personal. We can visualise the tiny lamb, safe in the shepherd’s arms, hearing the heartbeat of its strong protector. The image of the shepherd gently leading those that have young … it implies patience, not force. The shepherd is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of all of the sheep, young and older.
We are his flock. Where do you see yourself in this picture? Being carried in our Good Shepherd’s strong arms? Hearing his heartbeat of love for you when things become overwhelming? Or perhaps being gently led by him as you care for your own family or loved ones? Wherever you see yourself, being carried or led, know that our Good Shepherd is strong and dependable – and he loves you!
Dear Good Shepherd, thank you for the security I have in you. Carry or lead me through this day. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
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