The simple idea that God is there to guide us, that simple idea alone gives us comfort. We are not alone. We are not without direction.
God's guidance comes often when we are still and waiting. Listen for where love will take you today.
We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us — and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?
1 John 3:16-17
The thing that’s most important about a shepherd (and necessary) is that it is the shepherd’s job to guard the sheep. The shepherd keeps the sheep safe, gets them from one place to another, and is willing to sacrifice in order to do all of that.
If we are called to live like Christ, then we are called to live a “shepherding” life as well. We are called to be people who make sure others have food to eat and clean water to drink. We are called to be people who seek out safe space for all and help guide others when they feel lost. As an example of God’s shepherding love, we should keep a watchful eye out to make sure no one is left alone or behind. We need to be willing to put others first and at times make our own sacrifices.
Susan Reed
God, you have given me a perfect example to follow. While I cannot live up to that example, help me to desire to try. Help me see myself as a shepherd of your love for the world. Amen.
Though you may feel that you have no way to go,
Love is there to lead you.
When the world seems dark and scary,
God is there to give you light.
In the midst of every trouble, every care,
Christ's arms surround and hold you.