If you think about a shepherd working with their sheep, if he was a good shepherd, he would not be silent. When danger approaches, he would NOT just jump up and down and say nothing! Nor would he amble over to a tree and read a book thinking the sheep can handle this one on their own. A crumby shepherd would do that! Not a shepherd who loves his sheep.

A Good Shepherd, speaks, guides, and loves. His eyes are locked on his sheep. It doesn’t mean suffering will never befall his sheep, but He knows they will learn things that can’t be taught on sunny perfect days. Some paths are steep and slippery, He is teaching his sheep to call to him, and ask him for help. He is helping them to learn to persevere and not give up. This is another quality that is not learned on the level paths.

Then, there are the paths that seem hidden from view entirely. One step at a time is this path revealed. It is frustrating for the sheep as they are not known for their patience. They like to see what is coming so they can plan their route, but the sheep are powerless to do that. They can set goals until the sun sets, but that will not help this time. The Good Shepherd needs to clear the path and he is not in a rush. The sheep gives all kinds of advice to the Good Shepherd, but it does not make him rush. He does not see the urgency, he sees the opportunity for his sheep to learn to trust and relinquish their never-ending urge to control. Finally, the sheep stops and waits and listens for the Shepherd to speak and instruct.

John 10:3 “ The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out”.

Wherever you find yourself today my friend, the Good Shepherd sees you and hears you. I pray that you will have ears to hear Him speak and eyes to see what He is doing.