“Metaphors have a way of holding the most truth in the least space.” -Orson Scott Card It’s fascinating how the Bible uses metaphors to help us understand God’s truths. From stones to temples, water and flames, metaphors are rich throughout scripture, bringing the most complex of topics to life. One such metaphor that God uses is that of sheep and a good shepherd, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing” (Psalm 23:1). While it is cute imagery, when you dig into the characteristics of sheep, it can be a bit insulting to be compared to these animals. Sheep are not known to be smart creatures. They scare easily, and follow the pack, even if it is heading into danger. Sheep are stubborn, and cannot judge safety well. A sheep, once cast down, can’t get up on its own, and a sheep will drink from contaminated water even until death. Sheep seriously need a shepherd. Like them, we need a shepherd too. We spend much of our lives seeking after achievements, comforts, and pleasures that end up being like contaminated water, drinking from the same harmful wells without relief. We too can easily become stuck in our ways, and can suffer huge blows to our spirits when we are cast down. It takes humility and faith to turn from our own way and trust the good shepherd, Jesus Christ. Today, recall a time when you were, as in Psalm 23, “walking through the valley of the shadow of death”, and Christ comforted you. Or think about a time you were drinking from a well of dirty water, and Christ gave you living water. Remember today that you are God’s creation, the sheep of His pasture, and your trust in Him to lead you is the thing that brings Him the most pleasure. [The Shepherd, 10.26.14]
Posted on: Fri, 31 Oct 2014 20:03:00 +0000