It’s been years ago now, but I still remember the first time I saw a shepherd and sheep in Israel. I was a fairly young believer. I didn’t yet understand the teachings of scripture, but I did know that our pastor often referred to Christians as “sheep.” Our tour guide during that trip in Israel pointed out that shepherds in Jesus’ day usually had a distinct call their own sheep recognized, and the sheep would not follow the call of any other shepherd. In fact, sheep wandering in larger flocks of several shepherds would self-select out of the larger group when they heard the voice they recognized. The shepherd knew them individually, and they knew the voice of the shepherd.
Now many years later, I’m filled with wonder that I get to be one of God’s sheep. As I think of the billions of people in the world today—not to mention the many more who’ve been part of history since the beginning—I cannot fathom why God has allowed me to be in His fold. I’m ever aware that I hardly deserve a relationship with Him. Then, to consider that He knows me by name is even more amazing to me. It’s one thing for my parents to name me; it’s another matter entirely that my Creator knows that name.
My renewed commitment today is to readily put myself in a place to listen to His voice—and obey Him. I desire to hear Him and follow Him as He leads. Please pray for me.
PRAYER: “Jesus, give me ears to hear when You call me by name.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Weekend is for catch-up and review
MONDAY’S READING: Ezekiel 31-33, John 11
