The shepherd played a major role in our recent celebration of our Lord’s birth. Have you ever thought much about why? Why the lowly shepherds? These men were low on the food chain. They weren’t exactly a town’s elite citizen.
Throughout the Bible, there are many references to the ‘shepherds’. Today I am talking about David, the shepherd who became a KING. David knew about the role and responsibilities of a shepherd. He had experience! Sheep are totally dependent on the shepherd for everything. The sheep are clearly defenseless.
David’s psalm that is so well known, Psalm 23, describes the Lord as his shepherd. That makes us His sheep, however, we aren’t frightened, passive animals, but obedient followers. David says that the Lord leads him beside the peaceful streams, and guides him along the right paths. We can be content!
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.” v 1-2
We can be confident as the Shepherd is the only one that can walk with us through death’s dark valley and bring us to the other side. Our God of Life, our own shepherd has a rod and staff to protect and comfort us. Thankfully, as believers, we will dwell in the House of the Lord forever! Our God is the perfect shepherd and host. He promises to guide us and protect us throughout our lives!
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” v 4
Remember this: God loves you. No matter how you may be hurting, no matter the burdens you are carrying, no matter how you feel about your sins…..He loves you.
Romans 8:38-39….. And I am convinced that nothing can ever operate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow - not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below - indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
"His faithful love endures forever."
Until next time...
Chaplain Gray
