John 10:17-18. “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.”
I LAY DOWN MY LIFE: the love of the cross. Why would a Person do what others just talk about? What motivation is behind these words to keep To keep the Savior on this road knowing if He continued on this route It would lead to the darkest valley wide and deep? In Him was such a love that is beyond our measure - His is love that is infinite and true. He knew the sheep were lost and each one of them He treasured - And the name of every one the Good Shepherd knew. Without argument and fear, or the slightest hesitation - He went into death, though He was the sinless Son of God. The conclusion of the matter, was He provided full salvation - Abundant life is there for us because Jesus died.
A love that is without measure is such a moral pleasure - That the sheep for which He died will show love too. As they in life go further, often they will come together To express in prayer and praise what Christ went through. Their joy is not of sadness that has been turned into gladness, But the constant inward joy that comes with peace. For the Good Shepherd who once died, is forevermore alive - And gives to them through life His needed grace. The Good Shepherd who laid down His life, now bids us walk with Him in light, And we in turn reflect His love to others. The world that is so in need of love from people who love Him now should have The love of Christ shining through us to our brothers.
I can become conflicted when opportunities I've neglected - Makes me to consider why God has left me here.
I too have to love the sheep; I have moral obligations to keep - So there will be burdens I am called to bear. I should not avoid or allow myself to be annoyed - If some sheep seem to be straying from the fold. There will always be a reason; perhaps a temptation that has seized them And I can help them, even though I am old. The privilege of an under-shepherd, is he works under the Chief Shepherd - He is not left to tend the sheep alone. A day is coming when with rejoicing, we will come and will be voicing Our praise to the Good Shepherd who has brought us to His home.
“O Father, guide me today as we travel to another pasture where the sheep are in pain and old age. Help me to be a good shepherd to them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”