When we first got our sheep, I never realized how much they loved to roam. I also didn’t realize how insecure and nervous they can be, but being prey animals, I understand why they would be leery of certain situations. They are nomadic grazers, so they often travel long distances in search of greener pastures, but without a shepherd to keep them settled and offer reassurance, they can easily become nervous and walk off more calories than they consume.
Recently, I turned the sheep out in the morning, and later I found them headed into a perfect grazing spot about a of a half a mile from where I left them. Much to my surprise, instead of stopping to eat the lush grass, the lead sheep ate a couple of hurried bites, and kept walking toward the woods. “Where are you going?” I asked aloud as the sheep marched through the beautiful rye grass as if they were on some top secret mission. I made a wide circle, and eased around them as I guided them back to the thicket where the green grass was plentiful. Restlessness turned to contentment, as I, their shepherd sat with them while the adults grazed, and the young lambs eagerly nursed, then collapsed in the sun to take a well deserved nap.
2020 has been a year for the record books, and like these sheep, I am sure that we have all found ourselves at times on a mission to keep walking forward, somewhat dazed and confused, never stopping to realize that God is still in control, and that peace is still possible if we learn to keep our eyes on our Shepherd. We need to remember who the author of confusion is, and remind ourselves to turn to our Father in trying times, as He is the only source of real Truth. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that putting our faith in anyone other than our Shepherd, brings anxiety, confusion, and a lack of peace.
Yes, we are all ready for 2020 to be behind us, but unless we learn to put our faith in God, and seek out the Word of God, 2021 will be no better than 2020 was.
I am thankful that our Heavenly Father gave us specific instructions on how to navigate life in trying times such as these. King David, a shepherd first, and a King second, understood the role of his Shepherd in perilous times;
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
So let us welcome 2021, knowing that no matter what happens around us, our Shepherd is walking with us, and will provide us with a peace that surpasses understanding, if we allow Him to.
Happy New Year Everyone!