My wife and I were on holiday a few years ago in the country and the place where we were staying overlooked a sheep pasture. 

The sheep were free to roam the fields and hills, but a fence kept them within the bounds of safety.

One morning we awoke and saw that someone had left the gate open. Sheep were wandering about all over the place, and some were in danger. Soon the shepherd came, closed the gate and rounded them up until they were all safely within the enclosure.

Reflecting on the above verses reminded me of the Good Shepherd, who came to bring us safely back to God. He went to great lengths for us in suffering on the cross and dying as our substitute. 

Only because of what Christ endured can we know with confidence that we can enjoy the safety of the shepherd’s care and attention.

Following the Good Shepherd can be challenging. But the words of 1 Peter remind us that Christ had experienced much human suffering even though he was not guilty. Christ knows what we are going through. This letter encourages us to keep living faithful lives for Christ.

Prayer: Thank you, loving God, for the gift of your Son who leads us safely back to you. Amen