The Shepherd Knows Your Name

Backstory:
Over and over again, Jesus indirectly told the people who he was. Now he told them about another aspect of himself and about his love for them: He is the loving shepherd who leads his sheep and calls them by name. His sheep follow because they know his voice, and he is willing to die so they can live. The Jews still didn’t get it; they expected Jesus to give them a straight answer regarding his identity.

God’s Story:
I love how my Son is willing to sacrifice his life for those he loves — his sheep. He will die willingly to save them. This is the climax of my plan: My Son will gather my people, die in their place to redeem them and bring them back into fellowship with me. This was my plan all along; now it is revealed.

Read John 10:1-42

Your Story:
When an average citizen or a first responder saves a life, he or she is often touted and heralded as a hero. Jesus sacrificed himself willingly to save countless people, his “sheep.” He knew that sacrifice was God’s purpose for him in coming to earth. Jesus saves each of his sheep and calls them by name. What does it mean to you that Jesus knows your name? What does it mean to you that he died in order to enable you to live with him forever?