Shepherd
Then Jesus said to them, “Tonight all of you will run away because of Me, for it is written: I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.” – Matthew 26:31 (HCSB)
On the night of His arrest, Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7—a prophecy foretelling the wounding of the Shepherd and the scattering of the sheep. He applies it to Himself, not with reluctance but with sober clarity. He is the Shepherd of the flock, the one who leads, protects, and lays down His life for the sheep. And soon, He would be struck for their salvation.
The image of the shepherd is deeply woven into the story of redemption. In Matthew 9:36, Jesus looks upon the crowds and has compassion on them “because they were weary and worn out, like sheep without a shepherd.” In John 10:11, He declares, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” And in 1 Peter 2:25, Peter writes, “You were like sheep going astray, but you have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.”
Jesus as Shepherd is not sentimental; it is sacrificial. He doesn’t just comfort; He carries. He doesn’t just gather; He gives. The Shepherd walks ahead into danger to shield the flock, and no wolf, no cliff, no night is too threatening for Him to pursue the ones He loves.
To call on Jesus as Shepherd is to entrust yourself to His leadership and care. It’s to admit your vulnerability and embrace His guidance. He leads beside still waters, restores souls, and walks with us through the darkest valleys—not from a distance, but with rod and staff in hand.
Reflect: How does it comfort you to know Christ is your Shepherd? List 3 implications to reflect on today.
Prayer: Shepherd of my soul, thank You for watching over me with compassion and strength. When I wander, You seek me. When I’m wounded, You bind me. Lead me in Your paths today—paths of righteousness, of safety, and of truth. I belong to You, and I trust You completely. Amen.
Jesus came to "set the captives free," by the Truth.
Do you know Jesus yet?
Pray and ask Him to deliver you! He will.
email: mike@trainandtell.org
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