Pastor Larry spoke today reflecting on Psalm 23. He noted that the first three words alone are a full sermon. While Brother Larry went on to reflect on the Psalm and its description of the Good Shepherd and His care for His flock, I pondered the first statement: a sermon in itself.
It is notable that when God speaks to Moses from the burning bush that He gives His name as “I am.” I am that I am, I am that I was, I am that I will be. It is such a powerful name! His name itself says – “He is!”
More direct to shepherd-hood is Jesus’ use of the same term. In John’s gospel Jesus notes:
- I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35)
- I am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
- I am the Door (John 10:9)
- I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11,14)
- I am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)
- I am the Way and the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)
- I am the Vine (John 15:1,5)
Here in John 10 Jesus proclaims Himself to be that shepherd that leads besides still waters, whose rod and staff comforts, and who will follow us with goodness and mercy all the days of our life. He is! Do we need say more?
Padre