Psalm 77:20

Psalm 77:20

The Shepherd who leads His flock

So, it’s just a metaphor! But it’s a very powerful one. Israel was God’s flock – the sheep of His pasture. The fact that they were unruly, head strong and rebellious sheep is irrelevant. They belonged to the Lord, and He was their shepherd. Even if they did break the rules and wander away from the safe pasture lands, the divine shepherd would always bring them back and seek to restore and protect them. In the beginning, Moses and Aaron were the principal shepherds and they were charged with leading the people to a safe area of pasture – the Promised Land. The same happens today, the Lord has gathered the Jews from the four corners of the earth and restored them to their land. He has caused the pastures to flourish and grow and He continues to guard and protect them against their enemies. They carry the mark of God, and they will never be extinguished however much their enemies want to annihilate them.

Because of this, we may all take heart. Jesus was very clear, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” John 10:14-16.

In other words, just as the Lord God cared for Israel – and still does, so the Good Shepherd will care for His flock. In fact, we are just one flock, two breeds brought together, under one shepherd. The difference is that we recognise Him, in general Israel does not. 

 

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