Real Hope: The Israelites' Playlistنموونە

The Importance Of The Flock

I know it may appear that cats have cornered the market when it comes to funny online videos, but I just want to take a moment to put a word in for the good old humble sheep. Mindlessly wandering around, falling over for no apparent reason and my favourite: following the sheep in front of them and jumping over nothing. It’s a scream. Comedy gold! Obviously, they’re not the sharpest farm animal in the paddock.

Why am I talking about sheep, you may ask? I’m glad you asked.

Believers are often referred to as sheep in scripture. A bit unflattering? But let’s face it, the similarities are quite striking. A bit thick when left to our own devices. Easily lead off course, wandering away from the path and falling prey to predators as though they were sitting ducks… er, well sheep actually. We really need the protection of the flock. Psalm 122 starts and ends with ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord’, reminding us of the importance of the regular gathering of God’s people. Like sheep, we really need each other. In fact, the gathering of God’s people is essential to our journey with God.

Regularly gathering with other believers should not be a duty, a chore or a burden. We should rejoice in the power and safety of the flock, knowing that it enables us to worship the living God, receive direction from the Holy Spirit, experience accountability from each other, and enjoy the protection and loving care of Jesus, ‘The Good Shepherd’. Let’s rejoice!

Maybe it’s not so bad being called sheep after all.

Written by ROBBIE PARKIN