JESUS SPEAKING
Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10: 7-10.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
In the first century shepherding was a very common profession. Every good shepherd would tirelessly love and care for his sheep. Feeding and watering the livestock remained an unending endeavor. Every shepherd was also tasked with fending off hungry predators and keeping their sheep free from dangerous parasites. Over time, the sheep would come to trust in and rely upon the individual guiding and protecting them. After many days and nights of grazing in the open fields, the shepherd would need to rest. Upon returning home, he would place his animals in a pen where he knew they would be safe. Jesus is the ‘Good Shepherd.’ He came to gather his sheep together and lead them to safety. In this parable, the sheep pen is meant to represent heaven; there remains a single gate through which one can enter. Only those who have faith in and follow Jesus Christ are granted access to God’s kingdom.
Today, flying is a very common mode of modern transportation. In recent years, terrorists have utilized airplanes to commit atrocious acts of violence against many innocent people. In an effort to prevent these attacks from occurring, airport security has become correspondingly severe. There is now only one way in and one way out. In turn, those seeking to enter through the security checkpoints must have the proper identification. No license or alternative form of identification means no entry. This rule is without exception; a nice smile, a kind face, and an appealing excuse are of no benefit whatsoever. God’s kingdom is similar in many respects. Simply put, there is one way to enter; and only those who have faith in the messiah are granted access.
Jesus Christ is the ‘Good Shepherd.’ He came to lead his sheep into everlasting life. Many have heard his words and received Him. Still others however, have rejected him entirely. Despite a number of differences, the faithful and the unfaithful have one thing in common; they will both one day stand at the gate; and only those who have called Jesus master and Lord will be able to enter God’s eternal Kingdom.
“Lord Heavenly Father, may we enter Your Kingdom. We have come to trust in You; please lead us and teach us; provide for all of our needs. May we be Your sheep and may You be our Shepherd; may we know Your voice and never be deceived. Protect us from those who would seek to do us harm and inspire us to reach out to those who are lost. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you.
Jesus Speaks 