John 10:11-17
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. “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. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. John 10:11-17 (NIV)
John 10:16 shows us the true unity and diversity of the church. We are one body in which there is no distinction between the races. The glory of the church is when those from diverse racial and social backgrounds join together in harmony to praise God for His great salvation. That’s part of the glory of heaven.
When I joined Southwood Lutheran Church, I did not know anyone in the church, having moved from a small town, but I felt a drawing to Southwood. Moving forward, I came to a gathering to join a small group for Bible study. Little did I know at that time that this small group would still be together years later forging friendships that continue to grow stronger. It is a small community within a larger one.
Christian life is not to be lived in isolation, but in community with other believers. Sheep are not independent creatures. To thrive, they must be part of a flock under the protection of a shepherd. Sheep that stray from the flock get eaten by the wolves. So even though you may not like some of the sheep that the Lord has brought into His flock, we need to work hard at harmonious relationships. If you just come to church and leave, without getting to know some of your fellow believers, you’re missing one of the main sources for growth and encouragement in your Christian life.
I liken our small group to this. We have diversity in ages and stages of life. This does not matter, though. What does matter is that we come together in Jesus’ name with many similar beliefs as well as those that are different from others’. Even so, we are respectful and share the aspect of applying God’s word in our lives. We are all aware that Jesus laid down his life for us and is always our GOOD shepherd.
The good shepherd lays down his life for His sheep. He knows them personally and they know him. He brings all of His sheep from different races and backgrounds into one flock under his care.
Questions for Reflection:
- Are you welcoming to others even if you have different beliefs?
- How are we being “good shepherds” instead of “wolves”?
- How are we investing our lives in the people we serve?
Prayer
Thank You, Lord, that Jesus is my Good and faithful Shepherd. May I listen to Your voice and respond to your gracious leading. Thank you for pursuing me when I have wandered away from You. All praise, glory, and honor be to You, my Good Shepherd. Amen.
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