I AM: Good Shepherd

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep." --John 10:11----------Biblical images of the shepherd paint a picture of commitment and compassion for the sheep. Whether it is the parable of the Lost Sheep shared by Jesus, or his challenge to the disciples to recognize the need of the people who were like sheep without a shepherd, the clear message highlights the absolute dependance sheep have on their shepherd.----------So it is not mere coincidence that Jesus refers to himself as the Good Shepherd for he is responsible for our providence, our protection and our safety. Such is the nature of his role in our lives and in our eternity.