Devotion:
Read John 10:11-15.
The primary characteristic of a good shepherd is that he loves unto death; he is willing to die for the sheep. Jesus, as son of God, is our good Shepherd. We are His sheep. He takes care of us. In John 10, Jesus twice declared: “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11, 14). It is a reassuring picture of God’s gentle, loving care for us.
Jesus’ use of the shepherd imagery continues. Not only will Christ gather His people and give them eternal life, He will die for them. When the wolf comes, says Jesus, “the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Our great Shepherd, Jesus, will give everything so that we might have life forever in Him. The disciples never could get over the fact that Jesus loved them so much he was willing to die for them. Many of the epistles of Paul, John, James, and Peter contain awestruck references to this.
It doesn’t matter how bad or hopeless your circumstances are, there’s always hope. The good shepherd has already died for you, and he has risen from the dead! He is looking for you. He wants to give you a full life and fill your heart with thanksgiving. Johann Sebastian Bach wrote an aria (as part of a larger cantata) capturing the theme of Jesus as the sacrificial shepherd: “Sheep May Safely Graze.” Find a version of this beautiful musical piece online and reflect on the Shepherd’s love for you and His sacrificial gift of eternal life.
Personal Worship Option:
Father, we are so privileged and grateful to have your Son as our good shepherd! He leads us along your ways and gives us hope in the most desperate situations. Give us the wisdom to lean on Him alone each day. Amen.
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