22 Feb 2007 - Isaiah 53:6,7

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Let’s pray: Reveal to me where I tend to live a part from you and lead
me into your shepherding presence.

Scripture for today: Isaiah 53:6,7

What causes sheep to stray? Why are people driven to wander? Why do
sheep(and people) need a shepherd?

Isaiah pictures sheep going astray to describe the spiritual condition
of the people. Moses warned the people not to live as sheep without a
shepherd (Numbers 27:17). Jesus had compassion toward people because
they were like scattered sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:35). Why
sheep as an example of people? Why not goats or cows or even dogs? No,
it’s sheep because there are so many similarities between sheep and
people, I regret to say.
Sheep, like us, are restlessly hungry and thirsty, continually searching
for another mouthful or drink to satisfy its hunger and thirst. If left
on its own, restless sheep will eat inferior feed and drink from
polluted sources. People are the same. Jesus wants to shepherd us. He
wants to be the bread for our spiritual famine. He wants to be the water
that quenches our spiritual drought. Jesus provides for our restlessness.
Sheep, like us, by their very nature are anxious. Sound like anyone you
know? If there is the slightest sense of danger sheep are ready to flee.
Fleeing is their only means of protection. Yet the very presence of the
shepherd in the fields with the sheep is enough to calm them. People are
the same. Jesus wants to be our security, stability and protection. Our
shepherd alleviates our fears.
Do you know this shepherd? Not only will he satisfy your restlessness
and fears but he is willing to lay down his very life to offer the
necessary forgiveness and restoration for your wanderings. Jesus is the
sacrificial Lamb of God.

Lord, lead me from my wanderings into your shepherding presence and
life-giving forgiveness. You are the good shepherd. Amen.

Kurt Holm, The Creek Covenant Church