Our activity tonight involved collecting ‘sheep’ (black and white balloons to the rest of us) using a shepherd’s staff (aka hockey stick!) and ushering them into a pen (made from church chairs.) This was not as easy as it sounds, perhaps reminding us that a shepherd’s job is not as easy as we may think!
Ultimately, the Bible talks of us all being like sheep who have gone astray, each turning to our own ways. (Is 53:6) The essence of sin is independence from God, thinking that we know best and ignoring His advice. We need a good Shepherd who will lay down His life for us, and Jesus has done that for us all. (John 10:1-12) God is our Rock who is tough and strong, and though the crucifixion does not look like a display of strength, Paul reminds us that God’s weakness is stronger than our strength. (1 Cor 1:25) Ultimately, we have a God who is strong and mighty to save, a good Shepherd who will lead us through the darkest valleys and guide us safely home to Him. (Ps 23)