Good Shepherd

"I am the Good Shepherd. ... My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." (John 10:11,27 NKJV)

Do not be like the horse or like the mule,
Which have no understanding,
Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle,
Else they will not come near you.
(Psalms 32:9 NKJV)

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.
(Isaiah 40:11 NKJV)

How sad for those who think of God as a master who uses bit and bridle to control the lives of creatures used to serve his own whims, feared as one who would deal swiftly and harshly with any step out of line.

How sad for those who see Jesus as a mere model to human lives, representing the best we hope to become, distantly waiting for us as we unceasingly run to catch up.

How happy for those who know the voice of the Good Shepherd. He tenderly loves and closely watches over His helpless sheep, who on their own inevitably find trouble. He delights to provide every need of His flock. He leads with a firm and gentle voice. He steps in with a rod when necessary to protect from harm. He lays down His life that we may live.

Good Shepherd, how happy I am to be Your lamb, whether carried in Your bosom or walking peacefully at your side, content to simply hear Your voice. Thank You for gathering me into the flock of Your own beloved sheep.

"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." (Revelation 3:19-20 NKJV)

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Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy