A shepherd moved his flock into ‘our’ field a few days ago,
a field with no trees, and no shelter. More snow fell overnight and, though it
only adds up to an inch or two, it lies on frozen earth. No doubt the grass
which is still there is also frozen.
I watch as the ewes ‘in lamb’ scrape away snow in order to
access whatever nutrition lies beneath. One holds a rear leg up, limping
painfully across the frozen terrain.
This past week, seeing Jesus’ beautiful name invoked on
placards waved by those intent on violence and chaos has been shocking and
appalling. I can only think that those individuals have a warped vision of a divine
shepherd whose actions towards his flock are like those of the shepherd in our
neighbourhood: dispassionately leaving his people exposed to the harsh elements,
limping and hungry, fending for themselves.
What a contrast with Jesus’ description of himself as the good
shepherd, who offers rich grazing, refreshing water, and tender companionship
and care. In these wintry days, again I challenge myself to change perspective,
from anxiously consuming news which leads to heartburn and indigestion, to
hopefully feeding on God’s word, grazing in his luxuriant pastures and drinking
from the everlasting waters of life which spring from him.
I am so grateful for the good shepherd, Jesus, who continues
to walk with us, leading us forward into a future of joy, peace and love.
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