When was the last time you asked your phone for directions? Chances are, it wasn’t that long ago, and you definitely weren’t the only one! Over a billion people use Google Maps every month. I found myself relying on it quite a bit during my sabbatical. It’s amazing how helpful it is just about anywhere in the world. (It’s really good to be back home, by the way!)
When Jesus said, “Come, follow me,” he was using an image that would’ve made total sense to the Jewish people listening. All throughout the Bible, God is described as a shepherd—someone who leads, protects, provides, and even rescues his sheep. It’s how godly leaders were portrayed as well as the promised Chief shepherd who would gather God’s people together from all over the earth. So, when Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd” he was declaring that he was the fulfillment of all of those expectations that David so skillfully penned in the 23rd Psalm.
No wonder Psalm 23 is one of the most loved passages in the whole Bible. Even people who wouldn’t call themselves religious find comfort in its words. It’s peaceful. Reassuring. But here’s a question—are we actually willing to follow the shepherd?
If you haven’t read Psalm 23 in a while, I’d encourage you to take another look before Sunday. Most of us are familiar with it, but I think there are parts we’ve glossed over—mostly because we’re not huge fans of being told where to go. The whole idea of following someone else doesn’t sit easily with our culture of independence, self-reliance, and “doing your own thing.” (And being followed? That might feel even weirder… we’ll talk more about that on Sunday.)
Following Jesus,
Kurt
P.S. This Sunday’s going to be extra special—my friends Dr. Sam and Jaya Mathews from India will be with us! Plan to stay for lunch after church to hear about their incredible ministry. We’ll also be joined on Zoom by Paul and Lyn Leary, and Carl and Joy Follingstad. Hope you can stick around!