There was a time when we were without a shepherd. Harassed. Aimless. Helpless.
When [Jesus] saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matt 9:36)
But the good shepherd has come.
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:14)
This shepherd was sent by the Creator. This shepherd, full of compassion, laid down his life for the sheep.
“For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.” (John 10:17-18)
This charge he received. This charge he fulfilled. And he lives.
He lives and he is coming again.
So what?
There was a time when we were without a shepherd. Harassed. Aimless. Helpless.
That time has passed.
The shepherd has come. The shepherd has died. The shepherd has conquered Death.
Which means…
Today, there is no need to helplessly wallow in despair.
Today, there is no need to aimlessly waste your life.
Today, there is no excuse for failure to follow his lead.
The good shepherd has come. The good shepherd is coming again.
And that makes all the difference.