Just a Thought: Being compared to sheep is not very complementary, but it is reassuring. Sheep are not very smart animals. They have spindly legs and they are pretty much defenseless. So, when the Bible referrers to us as sheep it isn’t too complementary. However, when it does so and refers to Jesus as our shepherd, that is very reassuring. After all, I’m just saying if I am going to be called a dumb defenseless animal, I want to know I’m at least being led and protected by the chief shepherd. As we follow the Lord as our shepherd He not only provides and protects us, He leads us to a place of rest. Sheep may be dumb, but what do they have to worry about when they are being cared for and watched over by their shepherd? They may be defenseless, but what do they need to be concerned about if they have a shepherd who will fight for and protect them? As long as they follow the shepherd, they are at peace and rest grazing in the open fields and drinking from still waters. This is the picture David gives us of the life we have when we follow our shepherd Jesus. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.” (Ps 23:1-3a) Being called a sheep may not be flattering. But being in this position under the shepherd’s care is downright envious! So, why aren’t more of us experiencing this kind of Christian life? Because only the sheep who follow the shepherd can have this life. The sheep who wander off don’t get to enjoy this life. They are dumb enough to wander away and put themselves at risk. They can get lost. They can get in trouble. They can get themselves in danger. And when they do, there is a great deal to worry and be concerned about. I don’t know if there has been a scientific study done but, I don’t think that sheep under the shepherds care are grazing all tensed up. You know, one eye on the grass the other on the shepherd. “Is he still watching over me?” “Is he going to leave me?” “Is he going to protect me if a predator comes?” No! They are calm, grazing at peace drinking at will and at rest! Sheep under the watchful care of a good shepherd are peaceful. And so should we be. We should know the Lord is our shepherd and He will not lead us into temptation or danger. He will never leave us or forsake us. He will feed us only good and righteous things. He will direct us to quench our thirst from the peaceful promises of Hs word. And knowing He is in control of all things and we are under His watchful eyes and care should bring us inner peace and rest. We may not like being called sheep by comparison, but I love the sound of that kind of life. Does a sheep’s life under the watchful care of the shepherd sound like your life? Do you have the daily life David describes? Is the Lord your shepherd? Are you following the shepherd or have you wandered off? Being compared to sheep is not very complementary, but it is reassuring when the Lord is your shepherd and you are following Him.
