Our Good Shepherd

Our Good Shepherd Jesus’ “I Am” sayings are powerful statements that give us a look into His nature and heart. First, they reveal something about His mission on earth. But second, they connect Jesus to God the Father. These “I Am” statements connect theologically to Exodus 3:14, when God revealed Himself to Moses as “I Am.” In John 10, Jesus tells the people that He is the good shepherd. The mark of a good shepherd is that he's willing to lay down his life for his sheep, and Jesus says He is willing to do just that. Jesus’ statement is in contrast to the religious leaders of His day. The religious leaders would often make things very difficult for followers of God—adding laws and regulations that would actually keep people from Him. Ultimately, they were selfish leaders, considering themselves more important than the people they were leading. Jesus points out that the highest qualification of a shepherd is selflessness. Jesus is the ultimate shepherd because He truly cares for the people of God. He is like the shepherd in Psalm 23 who leads the sheep by still waters and cares for their souls. Have you ever considered Jesus as the shepherd of your soul? Jesus desires to walk alongside you in life, caring for your needs and taking care of your heart. He desires to love you, guide you, and lead you to a life of peace. Jesus isn't a leader that wants to make your life burdensome or difficult. Instead, He wants you to experience freedom and grace. Take a moment to consider Jesus as your shepherd, and thank Him for His love, protection, and grace.