There are a lot of sheep in the Bible. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob all had sheep. Moses tended sheep. Even King David was first a shepherd boy and the 23rdPsalm is ascribed to him. There are sheep in the Christmas story. Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep. And, in today’s Gospel, Jesus compares himself to a shepherd.
In speaking about sheep, Jesus used an image that was pretty common in Israel then – and now. But…there aren’t many – if any-- of us that have raised sheep, at least not lately – but I think that a sheep can still be a good image for us and our situation today if we learned or remembered a few things about sheep.
First, we tend to think of sheep as adorable stuffed animals. But it turns out that sheep are much dirtier and more resilient than they are made out to be. When the Psalmist talks about “green pastures” I often imagine sheep in a field with lush green grass or sweet alfalfa. But sheep can find nourishment in the green grasses that creep up along the sides of the rock that is sprinkled with dew or snow. Sheep can travel up mountainsides and down into valleys. However… they aren’t known for being very bright. Instead, they follow their nose from one green grass to another. Resilient – but highly distractible – sheep need a shepherd.
And so do we. Like the sheep, we are resilient – and distractible. Like sheep, we don’t always make the best choices and like sheep, we too need direction, protection and care. We need a Shepherd. And Jesus offers us that – and more. Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
Maybe life doesn’t feel very abundant these days. Separated from family and friends, we are getting restless to resume life as “normal.” We all yearn to be able to go to work, school, and other events. We long to gather together for worship and play without having to worry about getting sick ourselves and overloading the hospitals.
And yet… What does it mean to have abundant life?
In the 23rdPsalm, the abundant life is described as green pastures (remember what green pastures looked like? Maybe they were verdant or maybe they were rocky – but there was enough…especially when resources are shared). Abundant life was described as still waters – peace - as well as safety even in the midst of dark valleys. There is not only enough, there is an abundance, a fullness of life - because of the presence of the Lord.
This is why Jesus came - that they – and we all - may have life with him. That’s what abundant life is – it’s life with Jesus Christ.
Abundant life – with Jesus Christ - this is the promise that Jesus gave his disciples – and this is the promise that Jesus gives to you. And not only to you – this gift of Abundant Life, life with Jesus Christ, is given to you ALL.
This is not a promise that you will have everything that you want. But this is a promise – from Jesus – that regardless of the situation that you find yourself in today or any of your tomorrows, your life will nevertheless be filled with the fullness that comes from Christ.
Again, this is nota promise that you won’t get sick. This is not a promise that bad things won’t happen to you or to those you love. But if and when you or those you love are ill, hurting or in pain – you will not be alone, even if your family and friends can’t be near. For Jesus Christ will be.
For Jesus is with you when you use your gifts as a medical or care person – going into the hospital or nursing homes to care for the people despite the danger;
Jesus is with you when you go to your job at a grocery store or other place that needs to stay open to serve people;
Jesus is with you whenyou shelter in place so that you keep yourself and others from getting sick and overwhelming the medical teams;
Jesus is with you when you are feeling lost, alone or afraid.
Jesus is with you if you get the virus or have to quarantine.
Jesus is with you… no matter what.
We do not know what will happen with the corona virus in the next days and weeks and even months. But we do know the end of the story – and so you and I do not have to be afraid. Our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, is with you and will never forsake you. We know that Jesus came so that you, you all may have life, abundant life, with him. That’s a promise. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Pastor Pam Stalheim Lane Faith-Lilac Way Lutheran May 3, 2020