Baaaaah

So Jesus again said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 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. And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father." (John 10:7-18 ESV)

As I reflect this morning, I'm trying to think from a sheep's perspective. Sheep are supposed to be simple animals and I don't think I'm too different from them. What motivates a sheep: food, comfort, staying away from danger, and possibly play. Sounds a lot like me! 

I believe it was Pastor Charlie who first explained this passage to me: the sheep would enter a closed off area for the night and the shepherd would sleep at the entryway serving as an actual door,  protecting the sheep from predators. That image has always stuck with me. It's a beautiful illustration of God's love and commitment to me. My Good Shepherd is always there; I am always in his presence. He is alert, watching over me, his intention is for me, he has a plan and purpose for me, he will fight for me, and he will not abandon me because I belong to him. 

God's purpose is to give me a rich and satisfying life. He leads me to a destination and along the way he provides safety and sustenance. He knows me and I know him. Knowing that he provides all of this to me I don't need to worry about my comfort, danger, fear, and the enemy. Knowing him lets me run, frolic, and feel the wind in my wool. I get to enjoy all the blessings he's given me (some through trial) and live in abundant joy. My needs are simple but he gives me so much more. Above all I get to live out my life knowing I have a good shepherd who provides for all my needs, protects me, and lays down his life for me. 

Do you know your good shepherd? Do you stay close to him? Do you see how he watches over you? Do you believe that God's purpose is to give you a rich and satisfying life? Take some time to reflect on Jesus' proclamations of love through these verses and who he says he is to you.

- Natalie Chan