jpgJohn 10 – Journey Through John

In John 10, Jesus makes the claim, “I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11) It’s undoubtedly a reference back to Psalm 23 where David claims that “the Lord is his shepherd.” In that Psalm, David goes on to explain what God, the good shepherd, does:

He leads towards wholeness and rest.

He provides nutrients.

He restores the soul.

He remains by our side through the valleys of life.

He protects.

He pursues.

He prepares.

And then, thousands of years later, Jesus makes the claim that he is THE good shepherd. In making that claim he says that all that was true of God in Psalm 23 is also true of him. I wonder if you have heard from the good shepherd today. Do you know his voice? Can you sense his leading? Are you following him to still waters? Do you need restoration for your soul? He claims the be the good shepherd and in doing so says that he wants all of those things for you.

I preached over at TNL last week and their band did a song entitled, Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me. The lyrics of the song were an excellent prayer. Similar to praying that Jesus would be the good shepherd, but asking him to be the great pilot of our lives through the storms and trails, joys and pains. I’ve included the video and lyrics below and invite you to listen/read, and pray, and invite Jesus to be the Pilot (or shepherd).

 

“Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me”
by Edward Hopper, 1818-1888

1. Jesus, Savior, pilot me
Over life’s tempestuous sea;
Unknown waves before me roll,
Hiding rock and treacherous shoal.
Chart and compass come from Thee:
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

2. As a mother stills her child,
Thou canst hush the ocean wild;
Boisterous waves obey Thy will
When Thou say’st to them, “Be still!”
Wondrous Sovereign of the sea,
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

3. When at last I near the shore,
And the fearful breakers roar
‘Twixt me and the peaceful rest,
Then, while leaning on Thy breast,
May I hear Thee say to me,
“Fear not, I will pilot thee.”