Bread, Light, and now the good shepherd. Not “a” good shepherd, but “the” good shepherd. For those hearing Jesus’ words, their first thought might have been of Ps. 23 and its opening words: “The Lord (God) is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11
The image of the Good Shepherd is one of the most beloved in all of Scripture. It appears on many church walls in a framed picture, painted on an icon, or memorialized in a stained glass window. It conveys both intimacy and sacrifice. A hired hand will care for sheep for a wage, but a true shepherd knows each one by name, watches over them day and night, and willingly risks his life for their safety. They matter to him. We matter to him. You matter to him.
In this statement, Jesus reveals his heart — a love so deep that it leads him to the cross. He doesn’t abandon us in danger; he faces the wolves head-on. This is the nature of divine love: self-giving, protective, steadfast. The Shepherd’s voice calls us out of fear and isolation into belonging, peace, and rest.
We all need that assurance; an understanding that we are children of God and that we are seen, known, and loved. The Good Shepherd’s presence gives us this assurance. Even in the “valley of the shadow of death,” his staff comforts us. We are never alone.
But being part of his flock also calls us to trust his leading. Sheep often wander, chasing patches of grass that look greener or shiny objects that fascinate them, unaware of the dangers ahead. The Shepherd’s guidance may not always make sense in the moment, but his path always leads to safety and life. When we are zeroed in on his voice — through prayer, Scripture, and community — we learn to recognize the tone of love that never misleads.
Prayer: Good Shepherd, thank you for loving me, leading me, and protecting me. Teach me to listen for your voice above all others. Guard me from the dangers that would pull me away from you, and lead me to the still waters of your peace. May my life reflect the trust that comes from belonging to you. Amen.
