There’s something deeply comforting about the image of a Jesus as a Shepherd. Maybe that’s why the Twenty-Third Psalm is one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture: “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” It brings to mind green pastures, quiet waters, safety, and peace. But Jesus doesn’t just call Himself a shepherd. He calls Himself the Good Shepherd. And then He says something no ordinary shepherd would ever say.
Listen again to Jesus, “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” Now think about that for a moment. Imagine you're a shepherd. You’re guarding your flock and along comes a wolf. What’s your job? To protect the sheep, yes, even to kill for them. To die for them? Not really. Because if the shepherd dies, the sheep are in even more danger. A dead shepherd leaves the flock scattered and vulnerable. A good earthly shepherd tries to survive the attack, not become a martyr. But Jesus says, “I lay down My life for the sheep.” Not as a last resort. Not accidentally. Rather, intentionally.
Find out more about our Good Shepherd in this sermon from St. John's Lutheran Church of Oakes, ND!
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