As I navigated through the thick mud, nine sheep followed in my footsteps. They’d never been in the cow pasture before, but I’d noticed a long strip of green grass along the fence line. This would be a real treat in the middle of January. The tricky part would be crossing the ditch full of water to access the unseasonably lush forage. Jumping the ditch wouldn’t be a problem for most of the sheep, but it would be hard for BB, my almost completely blind sheep. Leaping over a water obstacle wasn’t an option for him.
Lottie and Dottie, the twins I bottle raised, are good followers—until they aren’t. Once they gain confidence, they strike out on their own with little regard for their shepherd’s voice. Not BB. He always listens intently for my voice and follows closely behind. Because of his blindness, he knows he must rely on his shepherdess to guide him safely through the twists and turns of everyday life. As I expected, the others jumped the ditch and began eating the sweet green grass. Sweet BB had no idea what a wonderful blessing was in store for him.
As we approached the ditch, he stuck close to me. He never faltered when the water touched his feet. Once we reached safety on the bank, he wagged his tail in excitement as he smelled the green grass—an unexpected treat. As I stroked his head, I realized how much joy a shepherd feels when their sheep enjoy the blessings of obedience.
Imagine what our lives would be like if we could be more like BB and fully relied on our Shepherd to guide our every step?
John 8:12
Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Lord, help us be obedient sheep that enjoy the blessings of your guidance and bring you joy.