The Good Shepherd always walks in front
Gently leading the way,
Never behind driving or pushing,
But lovingly guiding each day;
And when a sheep wanders away
From the security of this place,
The Shepherd corrects the wayward one
In love, mercy, and grace.
He protects from harm and fear
All that follow His lead,
His rod and staff guard and comfort,
And His hand meets every need;
He provides beautiful green pastures –
Rest for the weary and weak,
Revival, strength and vigor…
Peace and joy to reap.
He sets a table in the wilderness
With manna from on high,
And leads beside the still waters
That refresh and satisfy.
Oh, what love and tender care,
Such blessings God bestows
Upon the sheep that closely follow
The way The Shepherd goes.
by Connie C Bratcher
Jesus said: “I am the good Shepherd, and know my sheep,
and am known of mine.”
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me”
(John 10:14, 27)
- Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
- Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the deep breath.
- Today I invite you to journal with the Good Shepherd.
- Journaling in prayer is an art that allows you to pray in a new way with your body. It allows a stream of consciousness and prayer to be captured in your writing.
- Use the photo or the poem to begin your prayer with the Good Shepherd.
- Consider some of the following questions, or ask your own.
- As you write, do not pick up the pen. Allow the words to flow with no respect to grammar or spelling. Allow yourself to be fully present to God in writing.
- Come Holy Spirit, come.
- Remember an experience when you know the Good Shepherd was leading you beside still waters.
- What tempted you to leave the stillness?
- How did the Good Shepherd protect you?
- How did the Good Shepherd heal you?
- How did the Good Shepherd feed you?
- How did you respond to the Good Shepherd?
- How do you need the Good Shepherd to lead you today?
- As you finish your written thoughts and prayers, read back over them.
- What theme or focus captures you?
- What is God’s message for you?
- Give thanks to God for the Good Shepherd, for this time in prayer and for any new insights you have received.
- Share as you feel led in the reply box below.
Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, April 29, 2012, the Fourth Sunday of Easter Year B
Acts 4:5-12
Psalm 23:1-6
1 John 3:16-24
John 10:11-18
If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author. Permission to use in not-for-profit settings The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD.