Proverbs of a 43 yr old man

Picture a newborn lamb tucked against a shepherd’s chest. The little lamb is cold and hungry, so the shepherd wraps it up and holds it close.

That’s what I picture when I hear the words “bummer lamb.” It’s a lamb that has been orphaned or rejected by its mother and needs someone to step in and care for it.

Some of us know what it’s like to reach for love from the people we hoped would protect us and come away feeling unwanted. Over time, we can start to believe we have to be useful, strong, or perfect to earn love. But look at the lamb. The shepherd carries it when it’s weak, steadies it through its first steps, and welcomes it when it’s strong enough to run. The lamb grows strong because it’s cared for.

That’s a picture of Jesus, our Shepherd King. The scarred hands He holds out to us belong to the One who laid down His life for His sheep. As we receive His care, we learn to trust His voice.

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27, KJV»

When the shepherd calls, I picture the bummer lambs running to him first. His voice reaches deep into their hearts. It’s the voice of the one who held them close when they were weak.

Even on the days you feel unwanted, you can run to the Shepherd who knows you by name. And when you notice someone else who feels forgotten, make room for them. Save them a seat. Check in when they’ve been away. Stay long enough to hear how they’re really doing.