The Sheep

I grew up in the upper Midwest in a small community not far from the sheep capital of the United States. I could drive past farms and sale pens and see hundreds of sheep—large and little flocks.

But my favorite time of year was spring when little lambs with fresh fleeces danced in the fields and played beside their mothers. Their wool was always the brightest white, and their faces so sweet. They were endearing and curious.

The older sheep had thick and heavier wool, typically matted and darkened by dirt or mud. Their faces were always longer and darker. The older sheep moved more purposefully compared to the dancing baby lambs. But their heavy fleece restricted their movement. They seemed aware yet uninterested in so much of life that the young lambs delighted in. Watching them, I could practically feel the weight of the wool and curled horns as they carried themselves across the prairie fields.

And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.

~Luke 12:29-31 ESV

Sheep don’t own anything. They simply wander around their given area, grow their wool, sleep, and eat. Sheep are at the mercy of their shepherd and how he cares for them.

The Shepherd

Believers are the sheep of God’s pasture. I can see our resemblance with these wooly creatures. In the field of life, we live our lives accumulating things we say we own. Yet, none of these things are permanent. They can all be gone in the blink of an eye. We often wear the fears of loss, the weight of needs, and the burden of responsibility for what we have—a heavy load.

The new lambs are lighthearted and lively despite their complete dependency. When the shepherd is attentive, and the mom cares, the little lambs lead a full and happy life.

We can mimic the young lambs—dependent and carefree—or pattern ourselves after the older lambs—worn by life, burdened, long-faced, and prone to wander.

The Good Shepherd wants us to rest in His care. Determine some ways you can do that.

God, I know I am more like a sheep than I’d like to be. Therefore, help me be more like the young lambs, trusting and full of delight. Shear the weights that restrict me from freedom. Help me trust You with each day’s needs, knowing You are the Good Shepherd and will gladly give me the kingdom. Help me rest in Your good care. Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Little Flocks: Kristi LaRee: All Rights Reserved