It's a leadership that sees us as individuals and not objects. It's a leadership that sees us protected and not controlled. It's a leadership that wants to see our growth as people and not just what we can produce. Jesus gives us every chance to make our own free choice – follow...or not.
And Jesus backs up his call to follow with the promise of Good Shepherd care. Jesus says, “I know my sheep, and NO ONE is going to snatch them out of my hand.” Not the lies and tricks of Satan, not the seduction of the world, not even death itself can separate us from our shepherd. Jesus lays down his life for his sheep on the cross for their forgiveness and their security. Jesus guides his sheep, personally, whenever they have to walk through the valley of the shadow of death, or whatever other ordeal they must face. And the place to which Jesus guides his sheep, is the springs of the water of life – Jesus shows the way to the abundant life here, and the everlasting life to come. “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish,” says Jesus.
This is the hope that WE share, as followers of Jesus. Through Him, we are given the strength, courage, and tenacity to break through whatever fences fence us in. We can take whatever chance Jesus calls us to, because we have the confidence of his care. Through Him, we are given the peace and serenity to hear him, even in the chaos of busy lives. We can ignore the temptations and enticements of the world around us, by letting our focus be on Jesus. Through Him, we are given relief from the prod, as we turn our weaknesses over to his strength. We can ask for and receive forgiveness, and we can turn Jesus loose on the project of making us whole again. We can follow, because in Him, we are led by respect and love.
Gracious God, strip us of our excuses, and mould us into followers of your son Jesus. Help us to hear his voice clearly, and follow him willingly, in Jesus' name, amen.