Isaiah 40:11
When you look at the cross, what do you see? Do you see a good shepherd, laying his life down for his sheep?
Jesus is often referred to as “The Good Shepherd”. Shepherds were different from hired keepers who would run at the first sign of danger, abandoning the sheep and saving themselves. The shepherd protects and defends the sheep at all cost, even risking his life. There are many times that the Bible refers to God's children as sheep, and the Lord as their shepherd. When they are hurt or afraid, he picks them up and carries them in his arms. He gathers the sheep when they wander off and protects them from their enemies. Jesus identified Himself as the Good Shepherd, the One who was willing to give His own life to protect the sheep.
The prophet Isaiah said, the Lord is our shepherd. He provides us with all that we need. When we stray, he brings us back. When we are in danger, he protects us from harm. When we fall down, he picks us up. He will lead his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young. Isaiah 40:11 (NLT)
The word that comes to mind when I read this verse is ‘comfort’. The hopeful message of Isaiah reminds us that God will always be with us and that we can count on Him no matter what. God loves us and cares for us, nurturing His people like a shepherd and responding when we call. God’s Word is everlasting, reliable even when everything else in our lives changes or doesn’t last. He protects us through the dark valleys or hard times we go through and never leaves us. He provides us with strength and cares for our needs. He wants to comfort us and give us His peace. Psalm 23:1, says “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” ‘I shall not want’ means that God will take care of all of our needs. He is our hope and salvation. All our sin has been laid on Jesus at the cross.
Questions for Reflection:
- As God’s sheep we need to spend time knowing and recognizing the Good Shepherd’s voice. What are some ways that you listen for God’s voice?
- What does it look like to follow the Good Shepherd in a world of wolves that attack our faith?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the shepherd and we are your sheep. We know you are always with us and we thank you for your love and care. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
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