5/10/22

Our scripture this morning is John 10:11‭-‬16.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

Jesus explains His call from God to the Pharisees and those gathered outside the temple. He uses the example of a flock of sheep and the shepherd to help them understand. Of course, many in positions of power didn’t want to understand, fearing the loss of their authority.

Comparing us to sheep isn’t very flattering, but it is unfortunately true. Sheep are prone to wander and get into trouble without a shepherd to guide them. People suffer a similar limitation, each following their own way unless they accept Jesus as savior and Lord. He came to save us from ourselves, to lead us back into the relationship with God for which we were created.

Jesus closes this passage, saying “They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd”. No one is rejected except by their own choice to wander away from Him. Let us pray for the day when all will choose Jesus and be part of His flock.

Loving Lord, we are grateful that You sent Your son to be our Good Shepherd. Help us to love one another as You first loved us, and be obedient servants of Your kingdom. Amen.

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