Returning to the Shepherd

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:23-25: When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Observation – I’ve seen it written that after God sent Adam and Eve away from the Garden of Eden, the rest of the Bible describes how God calls them to return. I’ve heard it suggested that each of us, somewhere deep inside, has a memory of Eden. And the evangelistic call awakens that memory and leads us to return. Peter’s words here present the image of “sheep going astray.” When we come to Christ, we are returning to the “the Shepherd and Overseer of (our) souls.” I can’t explain how all that works. I do know that, in Christ, I have the answer to my deepest needs and questions. Through His cross my sins are covered. And when I stray yet today, He constantly calls me to return.

Application – I will keep my eyes on the Shepherd today. I will appreciate what He’s done and is doing for me.

Prayer – Lord, I live by your grace. I live in your grace. Thank you for calling me to return to you. Thank you for always welcoming me back when I stray. Sometimes, you even come and get me. Forgive me for moving away from you I certainly have nowhere better to go.