Be a Sheep!
Be a Sheep!
Shepherding was as common a job in Biblical times as working in retail is today in America. Sheep are mentioned over 500 times in Scripture and the relationship between them and their shepherd was used often by Jesus to convey a truth. It was a bond that was generally understood then – not so much now.
Sheep don’t discriminate. They do exhibit hierarchy and dominance, but none are ‘put out’ and some flocks will even congregate with other species like goats and alpacas! They all stick together and follow whichever individual is in front. If the flock encounters a feature in their path that requires a change in direction, as they turn whoever is out front on that edge of the group becomes the leader. Hopefully for the flock it’s the shepherd! He can assess what’s ahead and can lead them safely instead of just following the lay of the land. Sheep can discern the unique facial features and voices of humans, so they imprint on ‘their shepherd’ and follow him and his voice.
Sheep are a prey animal and have little natural protective ability against predators. Of course, they can bite, but are no match for the sharp teeth and agility of the carnivore. Their only real protection is to run as a large group towards whatever safety the one in front can perceive and rely on the strength of their guardian to drive off the attacker. His staff has a rounded end for prodding the sheep to move, a crooked end for corralling sheep out of reach (or rescue one fallen in a gully) and plenty of weight to block and parry an attacker.
Sheep don’t thrive when they are stressed and don’t have a strong immune system. Shepherds put oil on their heads to repel biting insects that can carry disease and make them restless. They are easily startled – some will even faint from shock and awe. The sound and motion of running water can incite their flight instinct, so the shepherd finds still water for sheep to drink. The main flock stays in a protected area while the shepherd goes out and searches to find a lost member. If an individual is too sick or weak to travel, the flock staysput until he can continue. If movement is necessary, the shepherd carries the individual. No one is left behind.
Although they have areas of pasture they prefer, sheep do not protect territory. Their place is with their flock wherever they are led and become stressed and agitated when separated. It is also worth noting that flock behavior ceases when a group of sheep is reduced to less than four individuals. They have an actual need for the company of one another and the effective guidance of an experienced leader to thrive.
Jesus used parables and examples of sheep and shepherding to help us understand that WE are like sheep and HE is like the shepherd. We need Him and we need each other. The two greatest commandments say just that: Love God and love each other. We aren’t designed to go it alone or go without His guidance. It should be of great comfort to know that fitness is not a requirement for flock membership. Amazingly enough we don’t get culled when we have fits of greed, pride, envy, thoughtlessness, impatience, cruelty, or judgment. We only degrade the integrity of the flock that leaves us all open to attack from the outside. Thank God we also don’t get put out because we are weak, sick, lonely, sad, discouraged, bewildered, confounded, pressed, persecuted, afraid or struck down.
Simple. Just stick together and follow Jesus. Be a sheep.
