My Shepherd’s Guiding Call

I used to be with sheep as white as milk and as fluffy as clouds. They baaed all day, waiting for the shepherd’s call. I’ve always known that I was built for more, that I didn’t belong in a mere gated life. So while the Shepherd was looking away, I took my chance.

As I searched for greener pastures, I stepped out of the fence, marking the start of my long journey. I left what I’ve always known, chasing the dream of something greater. I wasn’t certain of what was to come, but I was sure of what I wanted.

I traveled through the fields, found my way to the forest, and suddenly I drifted farther from where I started. The freedom made me feel bolder.

Why haven’t I done this sooner?

The trees were taller than the grasses back home, and I felt just as big. I wondered and wandered, not realizing the world around me was beginning to dim.

As I reached what seemed to be the heart of the forest, I heard a deafening howl. It was deep and scary; I knew it wanted me. I looked through the bushes, but there was nothing to be found. I looked up at the sky, and only then did I realize the sun had set.

Fear crept into my mind, blood rushed through my veins, and my legs bolted before I could even think.

The wind brushed my face. When I felt like I had reached my sanctuary, I came to a stop. Exhausted, I let myself rest. Cold, lost, and hungry.

Perhaps I was too arrogant. Maybe I didn’t belong in the grand world outside my home. I started walking again; the leaves cracked beneath my feet. I was hopeless and dejected. I wish I could go back to my lovely flock, but I have long forgotten the way back.

Just then, yellow light illuminated the scene. A gentle, familiar voice called my name. Someone had come to save me, and I knew just who it was. My Shepherd!

He found me wounded; my white wool was full of dirt, and yet when my frame caught his gaze, he looked at me with loving and understanding eyes. Carefully, He picked me up and carried me back into the fence. There, my flock welcomed me, and I was sure I was home.

I know I didn’t deserve to be followed, not when I was stubborn enough to leave. Yet my Shepherd never made me feel like I didn’t belong. Instead, he created a loving space for me and turned my mistakes into lessons. I am grateful for my Savior and His light. He was willing to leave the flock for the sake of finding me. He keeps me safe, loves me, and treasures me most especially.

Similarly, all of us are part of the flock of the Most High. Jesus is our shepherd, and no matter how lost we are, He will find us with His call. All we need to do is follow His voice, and He will find us.