"For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd & guardian of your souls."
(1 Peter 2:25)
This has long been a favorite verse of mine... primarily because of the beautiful phrase used to describe Jesus... The Shepherd & Guardian of Your Souls. But this morning I spent a bit of time reflecting on the truth & reality of that name.
Few Christians will argue with the designation of sheep & Shepherd when describing us and God. It's an honor to be "one of the flock." (Though just about every place else, to be seen as a "sheep" is a negative connotation - 'Don't be one of the (mindless) sheep.') But despite this designation, we often act like WE are the Shepherd & Guardian of our own souls. We want to have control of our own lives (physical & spiritual). We have a hard time with submission (especially to God).
The funny part is, sheep don't do well on their own. They are prone to wander & stray! Which gets them in trouble quickly. They weren't made to be "lone rangers," prowling the countryside alone. They need a community (flock/church) and Shepherd (God) to care for & protect them. They flourish when they submit to that authority.
As a wayward sheep, may I remember that truth. May I completely submit to The Shepherd & Guardian of My Soul!
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