Day 43: We are Sheep

Read: John 10:1-21

My older brother, Kile is an intimidating guy. He’s strong, of average height, has a large build, and can produce a serious death stare on cue. He is full of kindness and compassion, but can make anyone nervous when he needs to. Kile is five years older than me and took pride in intimidating any guy that talked to me.

My freshman year I went on my first date ever. My date picked me up and took me to the movie theater. As we pulled out of the driveway, we saw my brother and his friend jumped in his car. They followed us, went to see the same movie, and sat behind us. It was quite the awkward first date. 

He has always made me feel safe. His physical presence reassured me that if someone tried to hurt me, he could protect me. As well his overprotectiveness, although annoying at times, allowed me to never doubted that he cared. I knew I was loved and protected. 

In John chapter 10, we learn of God’s love for us, by how he protects us. Jesus uses the metaphor of a shepherd caring for his sheep. A shepherd, particularly at this time, cared deeply for his flock. He watched them intently, fought off predators, and acted as a gate at the sheepfold. 

The sheepfold was a place, a cave, shed, or open area surrounded by walls. The shepherd would sleep at the doorway protecting the sheep from the dangers outside. God protects us. That doesn’t mean that bad things won’t happen to us, but God will be there for us through everything. He cares for us.

 In verse 4, he says, “When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”The Shepherd goes before the sheep just as Jesus goes before us, leading the way for us. We need to listen for God’s voice and follow his leading in our lives.

We are the sheep, loved and cared for by the good shepherd. Verse 14-15 states, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” He is a good God that loves us deeply. He would lay down his life for his sheep. This statement parallels to the upcoming event of Jesus laying his life down on the cross for us. He died because of his love for us. He made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may receive salvation. 

Write a letter to God. Doesn’t matter how long. Just write a letter of prayer to God telling Him you are listening for His direction in your life. Trust that he loves you and has a better plan for your life than your own.