Bible Reading: 1 Chronicles 17-19; John 10:1-21
Memory verse: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 (KJV)
A Shepherd is a person who tends, feeds or guides the flock. Simply put, it is a person who takes care of sheep. In those days, shepherding was a primary way of life in and in the bible, we can see sheep represented in different ways.
First, sheep were an indicator of personal wealth. God established his Israeli nation through one man, Abraham, who was a herder. Scripture tells us that “the Lord [had] blessed [Abraham] greatly, and he [had] become great. He [gave] him flocks and herds, silver and gold, male and female servants, and camels and donkeys” (Genesis 24:35, NKJV). A different kind of sheep is introduced in Exodus: the perfect, spotless lamb whose blood acts as atonement for sin (Exodus 12:5-7). So sheep became analogous to sacrifice, reestablishing the bond between a Holy God and sinful man.
The sheep’s role becomes further amplified, even revolutionized, first in the notion of the good shepherd and his sheep. Shepherds, humble and hardworking people, have always played a prominent role in the Old Testament. David put his life on the line against a lion and a bear to protect his sheep. Continuing this theme, God selects them above all other important figures of the day, including Caesar himself, to be present at the nativity scene. God searches them out, sending angels to their fields at night to share with them the great joy and news of Christ’s birth.
As Jesus, the image of the living God, begins his ministry, He uses sheep and shepherds in a number of analogies. God is likened to the caring, protecting shepherd, while his flock, the sheep, is those who put confidence in Him and believe in Him. His sheep are followers, not blind, but trusting in the guidance and direction of a wiser, all-knowing Shepherd. Through the image of this animal, God chose to reveal His nature and, ultimately, His love. The thing about sheep is that we’re all called to be one. And as such, we too will find everlasting comfort in the Good Shepherd, our Savior’s protecting arms.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your love, care and protection.
Bro. Worthmore Aghanenu