Love

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. (John 10;11)

Raising sheep was common in ancient times. Sheep provided meat, wool, milk and cheese. The shepherd was important to the care of the flock. He would lead them to pasture and water while protecting them from wild animals. It was a relationship built on the humility and willingness to sacrifice on the part of the shepherd and the innate trust of the sheep.

In John 10, Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd. The good shepherd is different than the hired hand. The hired hand flees when wild animals stalk about because he cares nothing for the sheep while the good shepherd is willing to lay down his life to protect them. As the good shepherd, he knows his sheep and the sheep know him. They recognize and trust his voice so they follow him wherever he leads them knowing that he will provide and protect.

Jesus came to be the shepherd of your life—to lead you where you need to go, provide what you need along the way, and to protect you from the enemy. He knows you. He loves you. Do you know him? Do you trust him completely?