The Good Shepherd

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 (NIV)

I have a small chihuahua who needs to be carried whenever he has to go outside. He fell down the steps when we first moved into our house two years ago. Now he fears them. But, hesitating at each one, he will climb up four steps as if measuring the distance. When I take him outside, I pick him up and carry him, and set him gently in the grass. He is very still in my arms, putting complete trust in me.

Recently, as I took him down the steps, a picture of Jesus came into my mind. He carried a lamb while its mother followed, looking up at Him. It was a display of Jesus' tender compassion for the young lamb. Jesus is still the Good Shepherd looking after His sheep. Because we are members of His flock, He looks after us, carrying us over rough spots in our lives. When I grow weary of everyday problems, all I have to do is look up and pray to Him, trusting that He will carry my cares for me, making them lighter to bear. I live each day knowing that I have a good relationship with Jesus. When I say my prayers before going to sleep, I have confidence that Jesus remains the stabilizer of my day and all of my tomorrows.

Father, thank You for carrying us when the road of daily life gets too rough. Guard and guide us so that our actions might be pleasing to You. Amen

(c) 2010
E. Bonnie Ryan