“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep."

John 10 : 14 - 15

Bible reading : John 10 : 11 – 18

Thought for the week

The Lord has led me to have several conversations this week with people who keep sheep. About how hard they are to look after. They need constant attention for their feet, their heads, their eyes, their fleeces. Hearing some of the more graphic detail (!) It takes massive commitment to the sheep. And patience. I know I couldn’t do it.

Jesus speaks of those who might do half the job, or not even that. When it gets tough, or even dangerous, they are away.

Jesus is our Good Shepherd. He knows the sheep need a lot of looking after. Not just now and again, but all the time. In fact sheep simply cannot survive without a shepherd.

But more than this we have a shepherd who does not only care for us each day, but saw that we need a rescue, forgiveness, cleansing and hope.

Jesus has laid down His life for us, His sheep. Not only in an incredible act of sacrifice and loving commitment, but also to gather us, as people. To be one flock, from our different backgrounds and races and nationalities. One flock and one shepherd. He is the Good Shepherd who is the source of all that is good in our lives. Praise Him!

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week

Risen Christ,

faithful shepherd of your Father’s sheep:

teach us to hear your voice

and to follow your command,

that all your people may be gathered into one flock,

to the glory of God the Father. Amen