Dear
Shepherd,
I remember that night on the mountain. I had been lost for so long, and
the cold and the dark frightened me. In my loneliness I cried for help.
Then, through the leaden skies and across the deep chasms and over the rugged
rocks, I heard Your voice calling my name.
For a while I feared that You would never find me. It was so lost. But You came. I can still feel the thrill that came over me when You stooped to pick me up. Looking into Your kind face I sensed my unworthiness. And as I nestled in Your strong arms, I felt Your heartbeat. It spoke of Your love which had sacrificed so much to fine me. You had suffered on the mountain, and my waywardness had caused heartache and sorrow. But You didn't scold or chide me. you just loved me. I rested content in Your arms as You carried me to the lovely green valley below.
Those first days in your fold were especially delightful. The other sheep welcomed me and we grazed together at Your feet. You called each of us by name. But one day I was saddened when You brought home a lamb of a different color and some of the flock shunned him. I could tell by the look on Your face that You were grieved. The poor little lamb ran to You for encouragement, and You made up for the lack of affection from the sheep. You've always been that way. Our constant bleating never tires You. You are never too busy to tend to our needs, and to love us when we come running into Your presence.
And those walks in the meadow! How refreshing are the streams to which You lead us. If the water is turbulent and frightens us You build a small dam. Soon there is a pool of stilled waters and we drink to our hearts' content.
An, oh, those lovely green pastures. You always choose the finest places for us to graze. We always feel stronger after feasting on Your choice for us. There are so many harmful things that would poison and distress us, but You never lead us to them. Some foolish sheep stray and seek their own food, but it always brings sorrow, and sometimes death.
I remember so well the time when I became so busy with my feasting that I failed to look up. I was enjoying myself so much that I kept on nibbling and nibbling until at last when I lifted my head and looked around me I was alone. The rest of the flock were nowhere in sight. Worst of all, I couldn't find You anywhere. I panicked and began rushing around frantically. How foolish I had been. I cried aloud, as I had done on the mountain. Oh, I knew You were still my Shepherd but my foolish heart had led me astray. My joy was indescribable when I saw You coming over the brow of the hill. I ran quickly to meet You. your arms never felt so good. Thank You for restoring my soul.
Being a lamb isn't easy. There are many dangers. But You give me courage, and when I'm with You there is no fear, even in the darkest valley. I learned long ago that I am a helpless creature and can't do much to defend myself against all the enemies that seek to destroy me. But I don't have to defend myself. You have promised to do the fighting for me. That's what I need courage for—to trust You and let You do the fighting. And, oh, I know You can deliver me from all danger.
Last night You bathed my wounds, as You always do. The oil felt so soothing and warm as You poured it over my bruises. Then I was able to close my eyes and rest undisturbed by pain or fear. I thought again of what You have told Your flock so often—You are preparing a better fold. This one is only temporary. you say that it is never dark in the new fold, and that there are no dangers or fears or rough mountains. When can I go? I can hardly wait, because I know that I shall dwell there with You forever.
I can't ask for more. My cup runs over. Ever since that day You heard my cry on the mountain, things have been different.
Oh, Shepherd, I love You!
©1983 William Claire Greiner
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