Sheep-ish

Like most children I always wanted a pet growing up. My Mom tells me that I used to often ask about it and I can assure you that I never got what I wanted. Not because of any lack of kindness or generosity on my parent’s part, certainly not! No, my request was just impractically inconsistent with urban living. You see, I really really wanted a lamb. I used to read books and look at pictures of these delightful creatures and think about how wonderful it would be to have my own fuzzy little white lamb.

Surely, if I had one I would carry it around with me and never let it down!

Years later, as a new Christian, the symbolism of lambs, sheep and a Shepherd struck a chord with me, as it has many a believer.

Often when I lay down to go to sleep at night, a song that fills my thoughts is a worship chorus taken from Is. 40:11 which says:

“He will feed His flock like a shepherd;

He will gather the lambs with His arm,

And carry them in His bosom,

And gently lead those who are with young.”

How caring, our God!

Feeding us the truth of His word and providing physical food to nourish both our souls and bodies.

How attentive is He!

Noticing each lamb that may wander willfully or aimlessly from the flock, His gaze is fixed as He goes.... and graciously gathers His own.

How strong His love!

Any burden we hold is not too heavy for Him. He picks us up and safely carries us: in His arms, close to His heart.

How gentle His touch!

He doesn’t drive or prod us while we try to manage our own lives and those entrusted to our care. He tenderly leads us by guiding our way, encouraging our hearts, and supporting our steps. 

Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27

What great assurance it brings that Jesus knows me and you.

As His own, His voice is the only One our soul’s surely respond to.

True. Steady and Empowering. Bidding you and I to come and follow Him. 

Showing us the way.

Surely, He will faithfully hold tight His fuzzy flock and never let us down!

“And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:28

The LORD is my shepherd;

I shall not want.

He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell  in the house of the LORD

Forever.

Psalm 23