The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

SHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD

Moses recognized that sinful people were doomed to destruction without a godly leader. The people of God are pictured here as wayward and helpless sheep without the care of a benevolent shepherd. Knowing of his impending death, Moses interceded on behalf of the people and asked God to provide a shepherd who could lead the people into God’s promised land. God anointed Joshua for this role; however, like all subsequent leaders, he proved inadequate to fully provide the leadership and care that the people required.

Israel needed more than any sinful human leader could provide. This need prompted Jesus, like Moses, to lament over the condition of God’s flock (Mk 6:34). He knew that they needed a Good Shepherd who would not only lead them to safety but also ultimately lay down his life for the sheep he so dearly loved (Jn 10:1 – 18). Jesus provided the type of care Moses longed for in this passage — a kind of leadership that is impossible for a fallen person to provide. Only the Son of God could be the Good Shepherd the people so desperately needed.

Jesus, without you I am a wayward and helpless sheep doomed to destruction. Thank you for being my Shepherd, who leads me into life. Amen.