We live in a world far removed from the life of a shepherd. When Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11), His listeners would have pictured something strong, sacrificial, and deeply personal. Today, we often think of a shepherd as quiet or symbolic. But in Jesus’ time, it was demanding, costly work. A shepherd lived with his flock day and night. He knew every weakness, every wound, every tendency. He led from the front, because sheep followed the voice they trusted. That’s why Jesus says, “My sheep hear My voice, and they follow Me.” It’s not just poetry, it’s how relationship works. A good shepherd also fought for his sheep. He carried a rod to defend, a staff to guide. Strength and tenderness in one hand. And when one sheep was lost, he didn’t abandon it, he searched until he found it, lifted it onto his shoulders, and brought it home. That’s how Jesus loves. He doesn’t stop at the edge of our failure, He comes after us. But here’s the question: do you hear His voice? In our noisy, always-on world, we rarely make space to be still. Yet the invitation remains: “Be still and know that I am God.” What must you do today to hear The Shepherd’s voice? (Craig B) Open Bible – https://bit.ly/Joh10v11
