We can learn much concerning the trials and troubles of the shepherds of the Old Testament by reading their own descriptions of their work. Jacob worked for his Uncle Laban as a shepherd for 20 years. Jacob describes his work with these words, “This was my situation: The heat consumed me in the daytime and the cold at night, and sleep fled from my eyes” (Gen. 31:40).

David described his shepherding experience to King Saul saying, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear” (1 Sam. 17:34-36). There was nothing glamorous about being a shepherd. It was difficult and dangerous. It was not for the faint of heart. Not just anyone could be a good shepherd.

As sheep in the Lord’s flock, we know what it is like to be attacked. Peter tells us, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Pet. 5:8). But our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ—like David, who fought both lion and bear—has fought this lion for us. Satan can no longer harm us—as Luther writes, “This world’s prince may still Scowl fierce as he will, He can harm us none, He’s judged; the deed is done; One little word can fell him” (A Mighty Fortress, stanza 3).

What other beasts are attacking you? Perhaps you are wrestling with a prolonged illness that has attacked you or a loved one. Maybe you are wrestling with guilt from a past sin that continues to haunt your conscience. You might be wrestling with a reoccurring temptation that will not leave you alone. Remember, Jesus is your Good Shepherd. No matter what struggles you have, Jesus is with you to protect and defend you from all evil (Ps 32:7). If you have strayed from his side, Jesus will find you (Ezek. 34:11-24; Matt. 18:12-14).

At one time our Good Shepherd was struck down, and the sheep temporarily scattered (Zech. 13:7; Mark 14:27, 46-50). Now, “He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young” (Is. 40:11). In times of confusion and uncertainty, He leads you with his Word. In times of grief and mourning, He comforts you with His tender love. In times of sin and failure, He restores your soul with His forgiveness. In times of chaos and despair, He consoles you in the still waters of your Baptism. In times of conflict, when your enemies attack you, He prepares a table for you and feeds you with His own precious supper. Every day we live in the shadow of death but we need not fear. Jesus, the Good Shepherd is with us. He will guide us all of our lives. Then, at the time of His choosing, He will lead us to our eternal home.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have made me Your little lamb. In my Baptism, You have called me by name and added me to Your flock. Help me to always trust in You and look to You to satisfy my every need. Amen

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Updated: Thursday February 21, 2008