6. Young Searchers - Andrew and Andrea Marple

Search - Aug 2003

When we imagine as children which job we'd like when we grow up, being a shepherd probably isn't in our top ten! Maybe there's not a big demand for shepherds where you live, and even if there is, it doesn't sound particularly important or impressive does it?

In Biblical times, being a shepherd was a very demanding and important job. One famous shepherd in the Bible was Moses. After murdering an Egyptian, Moses ran away into the land of Midian, and became a shepherd. Alone in the wilderness, he fed and cared for the sheep. He was learning about being responsible and brave. These were the skills he would need later in his life when God used him as a great leader.

David was one of the greatest men in the Old Testament. He was many things-a musician, poet, soldier, king-but first of all he was a shepherd, known for his skills and bravery. Remember when he killed Goliath the giant? He used the very sling normally used for firing at wild animals preying on his flock.

So why was looking after sheep so important? Having sheep in Biblical times was a sign of wealth. Sheep were very valuable creatures, used for food, clothing, tent materials and sacrifices. They could also be traded for other goods and services. But it was no easy task to look after these animals. They needed constant care and attention. For example, they quickly needed shelter if it rained, or else their wet wool would become so heavy that they would fall over and would be unable to get up again! Their feet were prone to foot rot, or they would wander away. And don't forget the hungry predators lurking nearby. Sheep really needed to be looked after….in fact a lot like people do!

In the Old Testament, God's people the Israelites were described as His flock. Read Ezekiel Ch.34, v.1-10 to see whether or not the religious leaders were doing a good job of looking after, or shepherding them. No, the Israelite sheep were in the hands of bad shepherds who were only feeding themselves and worrying about their own health. The sheep were abandoned and were scattering.
God reassured the Israelites that they would be properly cared for. Ezekiel chapter 34 v.31 says:

"You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign LORD."
In the New Testament, God provided a perfect Shepherd for His flock of believers - Jesus Christ. In what ways is Jesus a loving guide for His people? Find John chapter10 v.11:

"I am the ______ ___________. The ______ ___________ lays down _____ ______ for the sheep."

v.14: " I am the ______ __________; I ______ ___ ________ and my sheep ______ ___."

v.16: "…They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be ____ _____ and ____ __________."

Jesus cares for us. He is concerned about the weak and sick, and searches for the lost. He rules with love, gathering and protecting us. Psalm 23 v.1 says: "The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want." If we obey the Lord and follow His guidance, we know that eternal life and security are ours.

Thank you Lord that You are our caring Shepherd. Help us to use Your example each day to care for the weak, the lost, and the hungry. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.