To the God who tends to His children,
Thank You, first, Lord, for the reminder that we have all like sheep gone astray. That we need someone to take care of us and protect us and save us from our own willfulness. Sheep get in predicaments when left to their own devices. So do we. Though many of us think we run our own lives just fine, thank you very much.
Sheep can be silly and are easily frightened. So are we. Though many of us think a little anxiety goes with the job. We don't recognize it as a lack of faith in Your provision.
Sheep need directed to the right kinds of food and water. Thank You that Your Word is the Bread of life in a starving world.
Sheep can be bullies and ram one another just to feel good. Shepherd God, thank You for carrying a rod and a staff, for the Holy Spirit who puts Your children in much needed isolation and downtime when we behave as animals to one another. Forgive me for butting in where I don't belong. Forgive me for smart aleck remarks offered for no better reason than that I feel clever. Today I want to build up others with my words.
The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. You are sufficient for every need. You are enough for every circumstance. You never lack, and when I abide in You, I too am filled and satisfied. You are the Good Shepherd. You lay down Your life for Your sheep, and I thank You and praise You for that mystery and reality.
This day, may we all recognize Your goodness for us, Your beloved sheep.
In Jesus' name. Amen.
