The Good Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” - John 10:11
When you think of the word “good,” what comes to mind? Maybe it’s a movie you enjoyed or a meal you found satisfying. We use the word a lot in our everyday language, "good" often means something that’s okay, pleasant, or just acceptable. But when Jesus calls Himself the “Good Shepherd,” He means something far deeper.
In John 10, Jesus explains His role as the shepherd who cares for His sheep, which means you and me. He talks about how the sheep follow Him because they recognize His voice. They trust Him. They won’t follow a stranger because they know that not everyone has their best interests at heart. That’s true in life too, isn’t it? Sometimes, other voices try to lead you astray. They promise quick fixes, success, or happiness, but deep down, you know something doesn’t feel right.
But Jesus doesn’t just call Himself any shepherd. He says He’s the “Good” Shepherd. And the word “good” in the original Greek is “kalos”, which means much more than just being acceptable or nice. It means noble, wholesome, and beautiful. It’s a word used to describe the very character of God. This isn’t just about someone doing their job well; it’s about Jesus being perfect, pure, and sacrificial in His care for you.
The Good Shepherd isn’t distant or uncaring. He knows you by name. He calls out to you, and He leads you with love and wisdom. Even more, He lays down His life for you. Jesus didn’t just say He’d give up everything for you, He actually did. That’s the depth of His goodness.
So today, let His voice be the one you listen to. When the world tries to offer you something else, remember the One who gave everything so that you could have life, and have it abundantly. That’s what a Good Shepherd does.
When you think of the word “good,” what comes to mind? Maybe it’s a movie you enjoyed or a meal you found satisfying. We use the word a lot in our everyday language, "good" often means something that’s okay, pleasant, or just acceptable. But when Jesus calls Himself the “Good Shepherd,” He means something far deeper.
In John 10, Jesus explains His role as the shepherd who cares for His sheep, which means you and me. He talks about how the sheep follow Him because they recognize His voice. They trust Him. They won’t follow a stranger because they know that not everyone has their best interests at heart. That’s true in life too, isn’t it? Sometimes, other voices try to lead you astray. They promise quick fixes, success, or happiness, but deep down, you know something doesn’t feel right.
But Jesus doesn’t just call Himself any shepherd. He says He’s the “Good” Shepherd. And the word “good” in the original Greek is “kalos”, which means much more than just being acceptable or nice. It means noble, wholesome, and beautiful. It’s a word used to describe the very character of God. This isn’t just about someone doing their job well; it’s about Jesus being perfect, pure, and sacrificial in His care for you.
The Good Shepherd isn’t distant or uncaring. He knows you by name. He calls out to you, and He leads you with love and wisdom. Even more, He lays down His life for you. Jesus didn’t just say He’d give up everything for you, He actually did. That’s the depth of His goodness.
So today, let His voice be the one you listen to. When the world tries to offer you something else, remember the One who gave everything so that you could have life, and have it abundantly. That’s what a Good Shepherd does.
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