In the Good Shepherd’s Care

Sheep are mentioned more than five hundred times in the Bible. In Genesis 4, we learn that Abel was a keeper of sheep. Further on we read of the large flocks of Abram and Lot. Abram’s grandson Jacob was a skilled shepherd whose flocks must have also been large because ten of his sons tended their father’s sheep. King David was first a shepherd boy and wrote the well-loved Shepherd’s Psalm. The duties of the ancient shepherds included keeping their flocks intact, protecting them from predators, and guiding them to market areas in time of shearing. Shepherds would graze their sheep, guiding them to areas of good forage, always sure to keep a watchful eye out for poisonous plants. We see sheep as meek and gentle creatures, but they are also quite fearful and timid. Sheep have an intensely companionable social instinct that allows them to bond closely with one another. They are a prey species, and their only defense is to flee. Separation from the flock can cause stress and panic; however, the sound of their shepherd’s voice quickly calms them. When I understand the role of a good shepherd, I am glad that Jesus is my shepherd, for He assures me in John 10:14, “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own” (NKJV). Driving through the southeastern part of the state of South Australia, we saw thousands of sheep grazing on pastureland.

There had been heavy rain, and large pools of water lay in the depressions of the land. On two occasions we saw sheep waterlogged and unable to move because of the heaviness of their rain-drenched wool. Another time, I saw a sheep bogged in mud. Where was their shepherd? Shepherding has changed since Bible times—but the Shepherd who leads us never changes. His name is Jesus, the One who gave His life for me—one of His wandering sheep. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. . . . I will fear no evil; For You are with me (Psalm 23:1–4, NKJV). The Good Shepherd is also your Shepherd.

Lyn Welk-Sandy