In John 10:11-14 Jesus calls himself “The Good Shepherd” twice. He compares himself to a shepherd who cares for his Sheep. Jesus says in John 10: 11-13 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.  The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”

Jesus also says in John 10:14-16 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.  I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

If you research on the internet about Shepherds and how they take care of sheep you will find out some amazing stuff similar to what Jesus described. The following is the description of the relationship between a Shepherd and their sheep by Kim Goodlin, a shepherd with a blog on the internet – “Through the shepherd’s hands new life is welcomed to the farm. These same hands care for each sheep, feeding them, tending them when sick, guiding them to new pastures, and giving them security. The sheep learn the touch of their shepherd’s hands and the sound of their voice. They learn that they are safe, cared for, and protected when in their shepherd’s presence. I have seen agitated sheep, completely relax and become peaceful when their shepherd calls and comes to them. The bond, shepherd to sheep, is one of complete trust.

Does this description sound familiar? It is the same relationship that Jesus has with us, his sheep. He knew us from the time we were born. He laid down his life for our sins so that we can be saved. He cares for us just like a good shepherd cares for his sheep when they need help. Sheep are feeble animals that need all the love, support, and nurturing they can get just like us feeble human beings who need the help of our Shepherd, Jesus Christ. When we hear what He says to us through the Bible we are comforted.  When we have a relationship with Jesus Christ, He will guide our paths and make sure that we do not go astray, and even if we do, which happens sometimes, like a good shepherd he will go out of his way to make sure we are back in his sheep pen. How amazing is it to have the God of the Universe as your own Good Shepherd? Yes for those who accept him as their savior, they are truly blessed to be called his sheep.