Jesus, the Good Shepherd

​4-26-21
Since yesterday was Good Shepherd Sunday, today's devotion is based on John 10:11, where we hear Jesus saying, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep."
I love the image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, tenderly caring for his sheep and lambs. The sheep and lambs represent us, of course. The image inspires us to trust in Jesus' protection, guidance, and provision. It is of special comfort to Christians who are 'walking through the valley of the shadow of death, such as soldiers and civilians in wartime, people during a pandemic, people nearing the end of their lives, and people mourning the death of loved ones.
As I was writing this, I remembered an old song that expresses living under the Good Shepherd's care, "I am Jesus' little lamb.
I am Jesus' little lamb
Ever glad at heart I am.
For my shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my need and well provides me,
Loves me every day the same,
Even calls me by my name.
Please join me in praying the prayer for today: Dear Lord, thank you for choosing me to be one of your sheep. Help me to recognize 'sheep' who are ready to be invited into your flock or back into it again. Help me to live in ways that make joining your flock seem to them like the obvious and right thing to do. Help me to look after our fellow sheep so that they will grow strong and remain in your care. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.