Our Good Shepherd

Jesus’ “I Am” sayings are powerful statements that give us a look into Jesus' nature and His mission on earth.

First, each statement reveals something about Jesus’ mission on earth. But second, they connect Jesus to God the Father. Jesus’ “I Am” statements connect theologically to Exodus 3:14, when God revealed HImself to Moses as “I Am.”

In John 10, Jesus tells the people that He is the good shepherd. The mark of a good shepherd is that he must be willing to lay down his life for his sheep. Jesus says He is willing to do that.

Jesus’ statement is in contrast to the religious leaders of His day. The religious leaders would often make things very difficult for followers of God. They would add laws and regulations that would keep people from God. Ultimately, they were selfish leaders, considering themselves as more important than the people they were leading.

Jesus points out that the highest qualification of a shepherd is selflessness. Jesus is the ultimate shepherd because He truly cares for the people of God. He is like the shepherd in Psalm 23 who leads the sheep by still waters and cares for their souls.

Have you ever considered Jesus as the shepherd of your own soul? Jesus desires to walk alongside you in life, caring for your needs and taking care of your heart. He desires to love you and guide you into what is good for you. 

He is not a leader that wants to make your life burdensome or difficult. Instead, He wants you to live in freedom and grace. Take a moment to consider Jesus as your shepherd, and thank Him for His love and grace.