December 21, 2015:  SOAP #2209:  

Scripture:  John (NIV) 10:14 [Jesus speaking] “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—  15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Observation:   Jesus is the good shepherd; He knows His sheep, not just knows about them.  His sheep know Him; not just know about Him.  Jesus is the good shepherd.  He does more for the sheep than the sheep can do for Him!  He does so much for them that their service in return is a response of thanksgiving and love.

Application:   People today need to be careful about who they follow.  Good leaders do not just use their followers to build their own kingdoms.  Good leaders are willing to lay down their lives for their followers.  Good leaders know their followers and their followers know them.  It is more than what is available on a TV screen or through a web site.

Prayer:   Lord, You are the Good Shepherd!  I am glad I can say as the Psalmist said, “You are ‘my shepherd.’”  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!