That Great Shepherd

Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. 

Hebrews 13:20-21 

Christ is that Great Shepherd of the sheep. He said of Himself, ‘I am the good shepherd.’ Our text declares Him to be the Great Shepherd. Peter would describe Him as ‘the Chief Shepherd.’ These terms conjure in our minds images of the middle eastern shepherd, leading his flock to water, pasture and safety. It reminds us of kind, familiar interaction and loving care. We think of the one who leaves the ninety and nine to seek the one who is lost, and who lays down his life for the sheep. David speaks of Christ in a most personal way saying, ‘The LORD is my shepherd. I shall not want.’ Aside from any other way we may describe Him, Christ, is our Shepherd. He has sought us, bought us, laid down His life for us, and done all that is necessary to secure us for time and for eternity. He has proven Himself in every way to be ‘that Great Shepherd of the sheep.’ When God raised Him from the dead He guaranteed the eternal welfare of all His flock for all eternity. He is made to us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. He is that Great Shepherd.   

Our Gracious Master and our God, 
we rejoice that You care for us in every way. 
We praise you that You will gather us all together, 
into the place You have prepared for us. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning