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
Shepherding was a very common first century profession. A shepherd’s duties included feeding and watering his livestock, fending off hungry predators, and keeping them free from dangerous parasites. Over time a bond would form between the shepherd and his sheep. Often, after many days and nights of grazing in the open fields, the shepherd would need some time to rest. Upon returning home, he would place his flock into a pen where they would remain unharmed. Jesus is the ‘Good Shepherd.’ He came to gather His sheep together and lead them to safety. In this parable, the sheep pen represents heaven; Jesus is the gate; a single opening through which one can enter. Only those who have faith in and follow Jesus Christ are granted access to God’s eternal kingdom.
Today, flying is a very common mode of transportation. In recent years however, terrorists have used airplanes to commit terrible acts of violence against many innocent people. In an effort to prevent these attacks from occurring, airport security has become quite serious. There is now only one way in and one way out of an airport. Those seeking to enter through the security checkpoints must possess 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. In many respects, God’s kingdom is identical. 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 have rejected Him entirely. Despite their many differences, the faithful and the unfaithful have one thing in common; they will both eventually stand before the Lord; and only those who have called Jesus master and followed His teachings will be able to enter God’s eternal Kingdom.
“Lord Heavenly Father, may we enter Your everlasting Kingdom. We have come to trust in You; please lead us, teach us, and 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 