READING: John 9:1-10:21
TEXTS AND APPLICATION: Repetition matters in the Bible. It catches the reader’s attention and directs him to important themes. Note the repetition in these verses from John 10:
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
John 10:14-15 I am the good shepherd. I know My own sheep, and they know Me, as the Father knows Me, and I know the Father. I lay down My life for the sheep.
John 10:17-18a This is why the Father loves Me, because I am laying down My life so I may take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down on My own.
Jesus laid down His life for His sheep. No one forced him to do it. He simply loved us enough to bear our punishment. What I fear is that we know this story so well that we take it for granted. Somehow, the cross becomes routine to us.
The Good Shepherd died for me. That’s amazing!
ACTION STEPS: As part of your devotion time today, read one of the Gospel accounts of the death of Jesus. Take enough time to allow the truth of Jesus’ death to sink in more today than ever.
PRAYER: “Father, forgive me when I take the cross for granted. Thank You for your Son — the good shepherd who gave His life for us.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Luke 10-11, John 10:22-42