My Sheep Hear My Voice

Again the Jews were divided because of these words. Many of them were saying, ‘He has a demon and is out of his mind. Why listen to him?’ Others were saying, ‘These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?’ At that time the festival of the Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, ‘How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.’ Jesus answered, ‘I have told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me; but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheep. My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. What my Father has given me is greater than all else, and no one can snatch it out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.’ John 10:19-30

We adopted a rescue dog in January. He was extremely thin and must have been long on the streets when he was rescued, maybe all of his life. It has taken him some time to answer to his name and we have been working with him daily to train him and make him part of the family. He is very food motivated, which helps. We think he now knows he is part of a family, a pack, who will provide food, shelter and love. Like our Beckett, it takes time and loving care to know where we belong. We all belong to Jesus, we know his voice of compassion, forgiveness and love. A good and loving shepherd to all people.

Gracious Creator, you keep us safe and fed

you nurture us and tend us as we grow strong

you protect us from those who would steal us

and speak to us with love so we know your voice.

We are often tempted to wander and stray away

so many voices tempt and persuade us daily

we forget to listen to the still quiet voice

which is always with us moving our hearts.

Oh, good shepherd, make us your flock again

let us listen closely to your cry for justice

let us move to gather those who are scattered

and give us ears to hear you and live your love. Amen.