Nourished in the Knowledge of God

Take Care of My Sheep.

John 21:16

A Christian cowboy tends his cattle on the land surrounding my home. The rumble of his tractor or truck informs me of his daily trips to care for his herd. He watches over the expectant cows and checks the herd for disease, hoof issues, and insect infestations. He also counts to confirm none are missing. In summer, he moves them from pasture to pasture to guarantee plenty of grass and water. When the winter winds blow, he provides hay for forage and bedding.

I think of his attentive ways when I read Jesus’ instruction to Peter to take care of His sheep, Jesus’ followers. New Testament stories reveal the ways Peter carried out those instructions. Peter responded to each of God’s promptings from raising Dorcas from the dead to visiting a Roman centurion’s home. Peter lived his life attentive to the needs of God’s sheep.

It also reminds me of my grandmother’s shepherding ways which included prayer and words of wisdom for my youthful concerns. In fact, one of her responses remains with me still. She paraphrased a biblical truth with: “I’ve noticed during my lifetime that God always seems to work things out.”

I pray for sensitivity to other’s conversations, prayer requests, health issues, and personal concerns. I want to care for them like the cowboy watches over his herd, like Peter cared for the early church, like my grandmother encouraged me, and like Jesus cares for each one who seeks Him.

Father, only You can instill within me Your sensitivity for others. Direct me in knowing how to respond to the needs I see among believers, whether it be tangible ways or through prayer. In the name of the Good Shepherd, Jesus, I pray, amen.

Linda Lesniewski