“I am the good shepherd . . . The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out” (John 10:14, 3 ESV).
Jesus often spoke in rural images that communicated visually to the people He addressed. Even though we are not as acquainted to those images today, they still communicate a great deal to us, even in our modern, urban, industrialized world. One such image that Jesus used was a shepherd. Shepherds were very commonplace. A good shepherd refers to more than merely skill in the shepherding task. The word is used in much the same way we would refer to a good doctor. One that is not only adroit in skill but one known for his sympathy and his graciousness. So the word good describes the quality of consciousness which makes him lovely and beautiful.
Jesus, the good shepherd, is concerned and interested in you. You matter to Him. He knows you. He calls you by name.
The eastern shepherds raised sheep for wool rather than for food. Thus sheep were usually in a shepherd’s flock for years and were often known by descriptive names like “Brown-leg” or “Black-ear.” The shepherds knew each sheep, everyone of them. And, likewise, the sheep knew the shepherd’s voice.
It is a wonderful feeling to be known, especially by someone who cares for and loves you
Have you ever gone to a gathering, and didn’t know a soul? You feel so alone, so isolated, so distant. Then all of a sudden someone from across the room calls your name. You are recognized. You are known. A flood of acceptance and peace comes over you. You relax, you belong.
Such it is with the good shepherd. Jesus knows you. He calls you by name. He accepts you. You are His.
Watch for my newest eBook: Chapter 13: The Excellence of Love
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About Rick Ezell
I am a husband, father, pastor, and writer.
This blog is about shaping character, transforming church, and impacting culture. I believe that if one defines their moments then their moments will determine their character and their character will influence their world.
I write on personal development, church leadership, and our changing culture. I also write about the resources I am developing and the books I am writing.
My goal is to create challenging, relevant, and inspiring content that will help you be a better person, the church be a better parish, and the world a better place. If you are interested in those things, this blog is for you.
I have served the church my entire career as a student minister and senior pastor. I studied at Samford University, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary (eventually I will get it).
I have written eight books. My most recent ones are Chapter 13: The Excellence of Love and Soul Therapy: The Healing Words of Psalm 23. Both are available as eBooks. I have written over 1000 articles for various local, regional, and national publications.
I have been married to Cindy for thirty-three years. We have one wonderful daughter. We live in Greenville, SC.
In my free time, I enjoy writing, reading, running, tennis, and golf.
You can contact me via email or follow me on Twitter or Facebook.
This is my personal blog. The opinions I express here do not necessarily represent those of my employer. The information I provide is on an as-is basis. I make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information on this blog and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.
