To Be A Sheep

           I remember seeing old Western television shows where there were huge range wars between cattle ranchers and sheep herders.  The cattle ranchers were certain the land could not sustain both cattle and sheep.  Yet, over time, with compromise on both sides, the differences were alleviated and peace reigned. It’s wonderful to see sheep being pastured throughout countryside, across our nation and know sheep have become a very important part of the economic industry.

         As Christians, we’ve heard the expression of being sheep lead by the Great Shepherd.  We know that the sheep know their Shepherd’s voice.  The implication being that as children of God, we know when Christ is speaking to us.  

          As it turns out, scientists have discovered that sheep actually have quite the memory and really do know their shepherd’s voice. In fact, they can remember faces of other sheep for at least two years and can recognize human faces they’ve been around for a while and are even reputed to be able to recognize human faces in a crowd, perhaps even as well as humans!¹

          It’s interesting to know that sheep really are potentially, very smart animals.  They are not stupid, nor do they follow blindly.  They band together against predators, much like Christians gather together to strengthen their understanding of God’s Word.  While we know we can stand alone in Christ, standing together as a group of believers solidifies our stand.

         David, the Psalmist was a shepherd before he became king, and recognized the relationship between the shepherd and his sheep.  He writes about this relationship in Psalm 23. In 1 Samuel, David explains to Saul that when danger lurked, whether in the form of a lion or bear, he would rescue the small lamb that was taken from the flock because that was his responsibility. He took his assignment very seriously. David knew his flock and they knew him.

        Jehovah means “to become known,” and our God unceasingly makes himself known to us if we avail ourselves to Him. God is called Jehovah-Raah which means “The Lord my Shepherd,” or “the Lord Shepherds me.”²  Jehovah God shepherds his flock and knows the voice of each one.  As he makes himself known, as one who leads his flock, he also desires a close relationship with us, His sheep. 

        Jesus, through God the Father is the Shepherd who knows our voice, knows how many hairs we have on our head and knows everything about us.  He wants nothing more than to rescue us from all the “wolves” in our lives much like David rescued the small lamb and any stray sheep when he was shepherd before he became king.

         So, I challenge you to “know God-Jehovah.”  He is the Great Shepherd who knows your name and wants to be your Strength, Strong Tower, and Protector.  Be His sheep!  Read His Word, communicate in prayer and learn to hear His voice.