We need our shepherd.

Often times, when I’m studying something for a lesson in kids church, I stumble upon “fun facts” that make me feel even closer to the Lord. Here are a few fun facts about sheep, for your enjoyment, that helped me center myself in gratitude. I’m so glad I have a shepherd!

1. Sheep have no sense of direction.

In recently read a crazy news report about a flock of sheep in Turkey. Evidently, 1500 unattended sheep fell off a cliff while the shepherds ate breakfast.The first 400 fell to their death in a ravine, but the remaining 1100 were saved because the first 400 broke the fall. The first 400 sheep were a big, fluffy cushion for the other sheep. Yikes! The reporter explained that the sheep in the back couldn’t see past the sheep in front, so they were unaware of what was ahead. The sheep in front couldn’t stop because the sheep in the back were pushing them forward.  How many times have we followed the one in front of us with no consideration for what lay ahead?… or worse, how times have we walked too close to the edge never considering the person who might fall from following us? I’m thankful for the clear direction that a relationship with Christ provides for my life.

2. Sheep are defenseless.

When sheep are frightened by noises such as running water, they will run away together. As a whole group, they have some kind of protection, whereas individually, they are defenseless. In fact, sometimes, sheep will fall over on their back (like a cockroach or turtle) with their legs flailing in the air. When in this position, it is completely helpless to the prey and is likely to be left behind when the flock moves on. It will die if the shepherd does not lift it and put it back on its feet. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been in real trouble, where disaster was imminent without my shepherd’s intervention. I’m humbled with gratitude by the many instances where the Lord rescued me and put me right.

3.Sheep are not meant to carry burdens.

Sheep spines are often used as models for human spines in research due to anatomical similarities. Studies show that their spines (like ours) don’t have a great capacity to bear heavy loads. You will rarely see sheep carrying a pack on their back. They would be crushed by then weight. WE (along with sheep) AREN’T PACK ANIMALS. I’m so thankful that Jesus carries my burdens… and that the burden he tasks me with is light when I’m with him.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them…I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:11-15 ESV)

Jesus, this week I pray for deeper surrender to you and your will. Lord, Just like sheep, we have no direction without you. We need your protection. We can’t even stand upright without your hand! We can’t, and were never meant to, carry all the heaviness we encounter. But you laid down your life for us, to be with us, to lead us, to empower us to lead others. May we follow well! May we walk behind you and no one else. May we rely on you for our safely and sustenance. May we feel the freedom that comes when you carry our heaviest burdens. Thank you for it all! ~amen.