Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

The Shepherd

By Linda August 23, 2019 Faith, Inspirational, Reflection

When we turn off the main road and onto this quiet country lane, I feel myself take a deep breath in and a slow exhale out. My soul settles into a different rhythm and a sense of peace washes over me.

This little flock of sheep, in no small measure, contributes to the settling of my heart. Watching them quietly graze in the fields where the rancher has led them ministers to my soul. They aren’t racing around looking for greener pastures. They aren’t fighting over who gets the bigger share. They eat – trusting in the care of the one who watches over them.

I didn’t see them for a while and worried that something had happened. It wouldn’t be out of the question to think a predator had invaded the flock. July melted into August, as our Texas summers are wont to do, and I wondered if perhaps the heat had become too much for them. Day after day of triple-digit heat made it almost unbearable to be outdoors – especially in a woolen coat. 

A couple of weeks ago I spotted them. The rancher had driven them to his other pasture across the road. The pasture where huge stands of oaks spread their branches and provide a place of shelter out of the blistering heat. 

Now every time we drive by, I see them grouped together under the protective branches. Some graze, others lay down for a bit of a rest, but all of them know enough to come to the shelter provided for them. The rancher has done all he can. They can decide to stay out in the sunshine and try to suffer through the heat, or they can yield to the care of their provider. They have chosen well.

So too with us. We have a Shepherd who has provided everything we need – no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in. He tenderly leads – offering a place of shelter in the midst of our struggles. Our part is to choose whether or not to accept what He offers. 

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.”  Psalm 23: 1-3

Blessings,

Linda

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