Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make you complete in everything good so that you may do his will, working among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
(Hebrews 13.20-21 NRSV)
There is an amusing story about a guide for a party of tourists in Palestine some years ago who was describing some of the customs of the Middle East. "Now," said he, "you are accustomed to seeing the shepherd following his sheep through the English lanes and countryside. In the East, however, things are different, for the shepherd always leads the way, going on before the flock. And the sheep always follow him, for they know his voice."

The party reached Palestine. The tourists couldn't help but notice that almost the first sight to greet them was a flock of sheep being driven--not led--by a man. The guide was astonished. Immediately he accosted the shepherd. "How is it that you are driving these sheep?" he asked. "I have always been told that Eastern shepherds lead their sheep." "You are quite right, sir," replied the man. "The shepherd does lead his sheep. But you see I'm not the shepherd, I'm the butcher!"

There is a difference between the interest of a shepherd and the interest of a butcher. Jesus is described as a gentle shepherd, a shepherd who knows his sheep and is known by them. A shepherd even willing to lay down his life for his sheep.

Lord Jesus, show me the right way to go. Amen.

Ron Newhouse

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