By Andrew Williams
John 10:14 (NLT): “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep, and my sheep know me.”
Good morning fellow disciples.
Let us turn our hearts to a verse that speaks of intimacy, of belonging, of a love that is deeply personal and profoundly comforting: the knowledge that we are known and loved by the Good Shepherd.
This isn’t a distant, impersonal relationship; it’s a close, intimate connection, a bond of love and trust that transcends all earthly understanding. Jesus doesn’t simply know us as a nameless face in a vast crowd; He knows us individually, intimately, personally. He knows our strengths and weaknesses, our joys and sorrows, our hopes and fears. He knows the deepest recesses of our hearts, the hidden corners of our souls. And more than knowing us, He loves us – a love that is unconditional, unwavering, and eternally steadfast.
Think about what it means to be known and loved by the Good Shepherd. It means never feeling truly alone, never feeling lost or abandoned. It means experiencing a deep sense of belonging, a profound connection to something greater than ourselves. It means receiving comfort in times of sorrow, strength in times of weakness, and guidance in times of uncertainty. It means knowing that we are cherished, valued, and deeply loved by the One who created us, who died for us, and who walks with us every step of the way.
This understanding empowers us to live with confidence, assurance, and unwavering hope. Knowing we are known and loved by the Good Shepherd, we are not intimidated by the challenges of life. We are not overcome by fear or despair; we are empowered to face our difficulties with grace and resilience. The storms of life may rage, but the Shepherd’s love will calm our hearts and steady our souls.
Our task, then, is to cultivate this intimate relationship with our Good Shepherd, to deepen our awareness of His love and care. Today, I challenge you to spend time in prayer and meditation, allowing His presence to fill you with peace and assurance. Seek opportunities to share His love with others, extending compassion and understanding. Let your life be a living testament to the transformative power of being known and loved by the Good Shepherd, a radiant reflection of His love and grace to a world in desperate need of His comfort.
Prayer: Loving Shepherd, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your intimate knowledge and unwavering love. Help us to cultivate this relationship, to deepen our awareness of Your presence, and to share Your love with others. Empower us to be sources of comfort, encouragement, and support, bringing Your peace and assurance to a world in desperate need of Your care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.