In Jesus' time shepherds had to tend their sheep through many different and sometimes difficult situations. Weather can change from dry to stormy at a moments notice. Predators can come at any time to steal away weaker animals. Often times they had to navigate difficult terrain in order to reach water or lush grazing. Shepherds had to maintain their vigilance.
Sheep have natural instincts that help them to stay safe and survive these situations. One of these is "flocking instinct", an inclination for the flock to stay close together, thus insuring safety in numbers. Another is the natural hardiness that they exhibit even in the worst of circumstances. However, the most important of these is the familiarity that they have with their shepherd. Sheep learn to recognize their shepherd. While they may recognize him by sight, sound is far more important. When darkness falls or storms rage they may not be able to see him but they know to go towards his voice. His call signifies safety. He can call them towards nourishing forage or water even hidden behind trees or hills. Sheep that do not learn to hear the call of their shepherd will not survive.
We used to have a small flock of sheep. They were part of my brothers' and my FFA project. Each day we would turn them out on lush wheat pasture to graze and each night we would pen them up by the barn. Once they were penned up they were safer from coyotes and easier to check on. When it was time to round them up for the night, I had to simply walk out in the field towards them. Once I got close enough to call them they would immediately run for the safety of the pen. They recognized me and my voice and knew what they were supposed to do.
One thing that I have learned about working with any livestock, including sheep is that a gentle voice works the best. Animals become agitated and jumpy around loud noises. They are much calmer to work with if a soft tone is used.
We used to have a small flock of sheep. They were part of my brothers' and my FFA project. Each day we would turn them out on lush wheat pasture to graze and each night we would pen them up by the barn. Once they were penned up they were safer from coyotes and easier to check on. When it was time to round them up for the night, I had to simply walk out in the field towards them. Once I got close enough to call them they would immediately run for the safety of the pen. They recognized me and my voice and knew what they were supposed to do.
One thing that I have learned about working with any livestock, including sheep is that a gentle voice works the best. Animals become agitated and jumpy around loud noises. They are much calmer to work with if a soft tone is used.
"My sheep listen to my voice. I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows his flock. Of course His flock is those that believe that He is the way to eternal life. As a shepherd leads his flock to choice grazing and much need water, Jesus leads believers to all of the things that they need for survival. His voice also indicates safety from "predators" and "storms". That is why it is important to learn to recognize His voice and obey it. Jesus voice is gentle but easily heard and recognized by those that listen. We must learn to hear and obey it.
