Shepherding is not just Jesus’ passion; it is one of his self-professed job descriptions.
Jesus is also known as the lamb of God. Is this lamb/sheep/shepherd imagery a paradox?
Perhaps it is, at least in part. But let this be no mystery. Today, consider Jesus as the protector and one who, while on earth, was to be protected until he was nailed to the cross. He is the guard as well as the guarded. He is the rod and staff. He is also vulnerable and, like us, turns to his Father as we, too, turn to our Father.
APPLICATION: All of us are aware of at least one lost sheep in our lives these days—someone who knows the scene isn’t right yet remains there for whatever reason. In complete humility, all of us have also been lost. Our words of Jesus are one thing. They come best when we model that our pastures are less than green, and that we, too, need shepherding.