The Good Shepherd

“From you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule my people.” (Matthew 2:5-6 MSG)

In biblical times, sheep herding was such a common job that no one had to explain the symbolism of comparing Jesus to a good shepherd. Most of us have never met a shepherd or been near a flock of sheep. We have seen images of Jesus walking around with a lamb in his arms. Yet, we rarely think about the full implications behind this pastoral metaphor.

A shepherd guides his sheep to good pastureland and water sources. He feeds and cares for his flock. He protects them from danger. He shears their wool when necessary. He delivers new lambs. He trains them. He goes after the wandering sheep and guides them back into the fold.

As the Good Shepherd, Jesus is our guide, provider, and protector. Everything we have is from Him. He knows what we really need. Not everything we want is beneficial. He nudges us back on track when we have strayed. He pulls us back when we are about to fall off a cliff. He delivers us from evil. He trains us through discipline. He grooms us for his purposes. He strips us of our superficial, egotistical fluff. Since we become attached to what we have amassed--our possessions, our identities, our accomplishments--this shearing is often uncomfortable. All we have to do is listen and follow.

Good Shepherd, we are depending on You to guide us, provide for us, and protects us. Shear us of our iniquities and use us according to Your purposes.