The Shepherd

O Lord, today we need a shepherd. We’re serving others in so many different areas that sometimes we forget our own neediness. But you don’t. You know how much we need your care. And you remind us of our need as we open your word. 

Thank you that you are The Lord, the most powerful of shepherds. You have what it takes to care for your sheep. You aren’t inadequate or careless. You, Lord, are able! You are the perfect Shepherd God. How amazing. 

Thank you for being present with us in this very moment. And the next. And later on today – you are already there. You weren’t just the Shepherd of David in Psalm 23. You weren’t just the Good Shepherd of Jesus’ day in John 10. You are the God of today! Right now! You are near every one of us, all the time, Acts 17:27. You aren’t too busy or absent. You are here. You never leave us or forsake us, Hebrews 13:5.

Thank you for being a personal Shepherd. You are mine. Ours, each one. You see the one, not just the ninety-nine, Luke 15:4-7. You see me. You know me. None of us is inconsequential to you. The strongest sheep and the weakest lamb, we all matter to you.

Thank you for seeing to the needs of our souls. With you, there is no lack. You are a providing Shepherd. Often, we are the providers to those around us. We pour out and pour out until we feel empty. But with you, Shepherd Lord, there is no lack of refilling. We aren’t left wanting anything essential; You give all that we need. And we trust you to know what that is! Forgive us for doubting your wisdom in providing. As we look back along the way, you have given and given again. You are so good. 

Lord, today we come to you humbled by your excellent care of us. And we go forward KNOWING that you are walking before us, beside us, and behind, Psalm 139:5-6.