Have you ever led a tour? Been responsible for a large group of people traveling a long distance? Chaperoned a class trip, band trip, or sports traveling team? At the end of the day, what is your primary purpose?
To safely deliver the same amount of 1st graders or hockey players or adult day care residents you started with.
That can be a challenge. Little kids get lost in museums. One van in the caravan doesn’t make it through the red light. Inquisitive old folks can wander.
My wife’s high school class was stopped on their senior trip when a highway patrol officer with flashing lights pulled over their bus – to deliver an embarrassed classmate left behind in Indiana (and they didn’t know it).
Thankfully, he was safe.
So are we as followers of our Good Shepherd, who promises us, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:27,28).
Follow Jesus in faith because he claims you. “My sheep.” You belong to him. He knows you intimately.
Will Jesus lose you? “Never.” Will Jesus forget about you? “Never.” Will Jesus allow troubles or problems to have their way with you? “Never.” Will Jesus let you go? “Never.”
You are always kept safe by your Good Shepherd.
PRAYER: Jesus, whenever I feel lost, lonely, overstressed, or underappreciated let me hear your voice in the promises you have spoken. You are my Good Shepherd. Keep me safe, forever. Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Read John 10:11-18 where Jesus makes more promises as your Good Shepherd. Technically, he is the “Best” Shepherd. Why?