Rhythms of FaithSample

AN OVERFLOWING LIFE

Our primary task as sheep is receiving the gift of the Shepherd. As we hear his voice, we receive life eternal through his gos­pel. Death does not sepa­rate us from the hand of God but brings us closer to his pres­ence. Our suffering does not snatch us from his hand but brings us deeper toward his heart. Because we are held by the Son, loved by the Father, and led by the Spirit, we are sheep who remain secure.

A good shepherd leads by staying close among and in the front of the flock to shield them from danger. Is this not what Christ has done for us? Christ came among us in his incarnation. Then Christ went before us into the land of sin and into the jaws of death in his crucifixion. Now he’s taking all his sheep with him into the green pastures of life eternal, because the Good Shepherd is also the Lamb of God slain and raised for us.

Revelation gives us a heavenly picture of this victory secured:

After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice:

Salvation belongs to our God,

who is seated on the throne,

and to the Lamb! (7:9–10, CSB)

This is the abundant life Jesus promised, the overflowing life of belonging, peace, and joy. Here and now, that looks like being held secure when fear threatens, being strengthened when we feel weak, being comforted when we grieve. One day, every tear will be wiped away and the Shepherd himself will welcome us home. Until then, we keep listening for his voice, following his direction, and resting in his presence.

When you think about the “abundant life” Jesus promised, what does that look like in your current season?

We hope you are encouraged by this reading plan. To learn more about RHYTHMS OF FAITH by Claude Atchoclick here.