Whenever sheep and shepherds come up in Scripture, I reflect on how blessed I am to have experienced sheepherding, a profession few today have even seen, let alone done. Leading my flock from a barren pasture to one rich with food, I sometimes noticed a sheep wouldn’t want to leave, clinging to the known. Other times one would go astray because of curiosity or absent-mindedness. And sometimes, an ewe’s fear of the unknown up ahead would lead it not back to the known barren field, but frantically scampering off at an angle into real danger.

Lord, let me trust and follow your voice as I walk into what lies ahead. If I cling to the past, wander off absentmindedly, or if fear drives me into a dangerous spot, gather me in your arms, comfort me, and set me back on the path.