Did you know that sheep aren't very smart?
Listen to this...they tend to wander into running creeks for water, then their wool grows heavy and they drown. They need a shepherd to lead them to 'calm water' (Psalms 23:2).
They have no natural defense - no claws, no horns, no fangs. They are totally helpless. Sheep need a shepherd with a 'rod and...walking stick' to protect them. (Psalms 23:4).
Sheep have absolutely no sense of direction. They need someone to lead them 'on paths that are right'. (Psalms 23:3).
Are you thinking what I'm thinking? I'm a lot like these sheep! I, too, tend to be swept away by waters of temptation that I should have avoided. I am pretty defenseless against the evil lion who prowls about seeking whom he might devour. And I most certainly get lost.
I need a Shepherd. We need a Shepherd! We need a Shepherd to care for us and to guide us. AND WE HAVE ONE!! ONE who knows us by name (John 10:3). One who is so good to us and loves us so incredibly that He willingly gave His life for the sheep.
As you gather with your friends and family - - hold hands, pause, pray, and thank God for being blessed with such a loving and caring Shepherd!!