Isaiah 40:11 "He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms."
These words portray one of the most beautiful pictures of our Lord, namely, that of a faithful shepherd who tenderly and patiently cares for His own, the sheep of His pasture.
The little ones, the lambs, receive special attention from their shepherd. They are not able to keep up the pace of the grown-ups; so the shepherd lovingly carries them in his arms. The mothers and those who will soon give birth are also given special concern, and they are led gently, tenderly.
What a lovely picture of our Lord's love and concern for each of us, His sheep and His lambs! He knows each of us by name; He knows our needs, our weaknesses, and our cares.
As our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ has given His life for us. He continues to provide for our spiritual needs through Word and Sacrament. None of us escapes His all-embracing care. Faithfully He leads and guides us past all the dangers and pitfalls of life to our eternal fold with Him in heaven. Truly we say with King David, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters" (Psalm 23:1-2).
PRAYER: Savior, like a shepherd lead us, for we need Your tender care. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996, Concordia Publishing House (out of print). For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Exodus 16-18 Matthew 27:1-26
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