I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
John 10:11
Yesterday, we began looking at Jesus as the Good Shepherd, and we understood that the Good Shepherd requires authorized access to work in our lives. He also desires for us to involve Him in all things as we go out and come in. Today, we will continue in the same passage to explore other aspects of the Good Shepherd that Jesus mentioned.
Jesus says that the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. This is an expression of deep love for the sheep, just as the death of Jesus on the Cross for us is the ultimate expression of love. The Good Shepherd gave His life in place of the sheep, unlike the hired hands who run away at the sight of danger. This shows that only the Good Shepherd truly loves the sheep. Yet, many times, we doubt this love because of the things we have encountered on earth. But the truth is that the Good Shepherd has taken upon Himself the worst thing that could ever happen to us. If that isn’t love, I don’t know what is. However, His love isn’t expressed only in this one act, though it is the greatest expression of His love. He continues to daily express His love in our lives, keeping us and leading us according to His will so that we may become like Him.
Moreover, Jesus goes on to say that the Good Shepherd knows the sheep, and the sheep know the Good Shepherd. This is a mutual love relationship. Not only does Jesus love us, but He also emphasizes that the relationship isn’t complete without our love for Him. In fact, His love would be in vain if we do not love Him in return because it is this love that brings us to accept the Good Shepherd in our lives. Also, the extent of the Good Shepherd’s love for the sheep is shown in His desire that those who do not yet know (or love) Him will come to their senses and know Him. He said in verse 16, “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.” This is the goal of the Good Shepherd—to call others to the obedience that is in Christ Jesus. Therefore, fulfill His vision by being partakers in His will.
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your precious display of love and sacrifice on the cross just for me. Help my life to be an expression of Your love for me, so that through me, You will call others to obedience in Christ Jesus. Help me to know You more and to love You more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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