The Lord is My Shepherd – Seeing Jesus

The words of Psalm 23 are familiar to many and have served to provide comfort, solace, encouragement and support for generations:

“The Lord is my shepherd;

I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;

he leads me beside still waters;

he restores my soul.”

These words are often heard at funerals and cemeteries. The imagery is vivid and soothing. Besides the words from the Old Testament’s song book, Jesus refers to Himself more than once as a shepherd for the people. A shepherd leads, protects, guides, and guards the sheep. When the shepherd is nearby, sheep don’t have to worry about danger or threats.

Continuing in the scriptures of the Easter season, this coming Sunday we will hear a conversation between Jesus and some Jews gathered at the temple. “Are you the Messiah?” is their question. Unsurprisingly, Jesus’ response is not direct. Instead, Jesus talks about the ability of His people, his sheep, to recognize His voice and to follow Him, unquestioningly.

Do you hear God’s voice speak to you? Can you tell when God is prompting you to move, act, or respond in a particular way? Throughout this Easter season, scripture continues to ask us about the ways we see Jesus. The beauty of a new day, the buds bursting forth on plants and trees, the laughter of a child – there are many small occasions that bring delight and wonder. As we believe that Christ is not dead, but has risen; as we believe that God is living and active and involved in the world, creation, and our lives, then it should be no surprise when we see Jesus.

Beyond supernatural or spectacular “signs and wonders,” Jesus speaks to us daily, like a shepherd, leading us into safety and well-being. I’d love to hear your stories of how you see Jesus.

Very truly,

Pastor Adam