Our Good Shepherd

April 18, 2006

By Phyllis Fenstermaker

“And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice” (John 10:4, NKJV).

John 10 is one of my favorite Scripture passages. Although it is rich in symbolism, it so clearly reveals Jesus who has chosen to guide me personally. The symbolism casts me — or anyone who chooses to follow Jesus — as the sheep, and Jesus as the Great Shepherd who leads and cares for His sheep.

Jesus knows the way that I take and He knows I need someone to lead me in that way. As the Good Shepherd, He never expects His sheep to go anywhere He has not already gone. He not only knows the way, but He also knows the conditions along the way. Where He leads may not be easy; it may be in the very presence of the enemy. But, be assured it is a secure way because Jesus is there. He always protects and cares for His sheep.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, does not plod ahead and expect us to follow any way we can. He takes a personal interest in each and every sheep. He knows the strength and potential of each one. He regularly examines every one for thorns, cuts and bruises. He applies healing balm to the injured.

Jesus gave His life to save the sheep. He makes himself known to each individual sheep. His true sheep recognize Him and respond to His voice and are not distracted or misled. They may stray, but He always seeks the lost and straying.

Jesus shows true concern for His sheep. He is not just working for the owner; He is the owner. We are His! He loves and stands by His sheep no matter what happens. His sheep follow Him. If they love Him enough they will follow closely. Love is the secret of this close relationship.

If you have ever followed someone who pushed through brush, trees or willows and carelessly let the branches snap back and hit you in the face you know how dangerous and unpleasant it can be if you follow too closely. With Jesus, this danger does not exist. He protects His own. It is safe to follow Jesus closely. He makes it His business to open the trail and anticipate the difficulties. “He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (Psalm 23:2,3).

Some see salvation as a quantum leap out of sin into righteousness. In reality, it is a continual walk with God. Each and every day the Good Shepherd calls His sheep by name and leads them out. He knows every name. All I have to do is follow.

Phyllis Fenstermaker pastors St. Michael Mission Assembly of God in St. Michael, Alaska.