Sharing the Good News as a Disciple of JesusSample

The Shepherd Searches for His Sheep
By Rev. Patrick Feldhus  

"I also have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. Then there will be one flock and one shepherd." (John 10:16)

The image of Jesus as our Good Shepherd is one of the most cherished and comforting descriptions of our relationship with Him. Many of us can recall artwork of Jesus carrying one of His sheep on His shoulders. 

The fact that Jesus would search for His sheep when they go astray is a testimony to His amazing grace. You benefited from the work of the Good Shepherd. You lie securely in His green pastures. 

We might get the impression that the Good Shepherd would be content with the sheep He has, but our Bible verse says the opposite. Our Good Shepherd has other sheep who have not been gathered into His sheep pen. His work continues until the last sheep is gathered. 

Here comes the shocking part.

The Good Shepherd uses the sheep that He has already gathered into His sheep pen to go and seek out His other sheep and bring them in too. He wants you to go out into the world and tell others about the tremendous love of the Good Shepherd—that He gave up His life and took it up again for those other sheep as well. 

You have a unique perspective. You know the comfort of the green pastures of Christ’s righteousness. You know the quiet waters of forgiveness. You get to tell other sheep about these gifts of the Good Shepherd. 

When they hear about the Good Shepherd from you, it will be the Good Shepherd’s voice they hear! You are part of the mission of our Good Shepherd. You can tell the good news from your home while on the phone, via Facetime or Zoom, and even from your hospital room. 

Prayer: My Good Shepherd, thank You for searching for me and giving me the blessed assurance of forgiveness and eternal life. Help me to hold on to those gifts of grace as I continue to live in this world. Give me opportunities to tell other sheep about the sacrifice you made for them so that they can join us in Your eternal pen. In Your Name we pray, Amen.