The Upper Room Devotional October 27, 2023 Message
The Upper Room Devotional October 27, 2023 , Friday Message by Ted Rogers (Texas, USA)
TOPIC: The Shepherd’s Voice
TODAY’S READING
John 10:14-18
Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” – John 10:27-28 (NIV)
From time to time a ewe will abandon her healthy lamb. Shepherds call such orphans “bummer lambs.” When a shepherd encounters one, he picks it up, adopting it as his own. He bottle-feeds it and lets it sleep with its head on his chest, comforting the small creature by the sound of his heartbeat.
My wife and I once adopted a bummer lamb and took her to our house to care for her. Whenever we returned home, as soon as the tiny lamb heard our voices she would run to the door, bleating in welcome.
When the lamb grows to be a sheep, it takes its place in the flock; but the bond between it and the shepherd remains. When the shepherd calls the flock to come, the orphan will hear and respond to the shepherd’s voice first, running to greet him, drawing the other sheep to the shepherd.
This reminds me of the Good Shepherd: “My sheep listen to my voice; and I know them, and they follow me.” If you have ever been a “bummer lamb,” know this: though you have been wounded deeply, God will cherish you. When we listen for God’s voice and are ready to follow God’s call, we can help lead others to God’s love.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Lord, may we hear your voice, know your will for us, and be quick to follow you. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
How will I listen for God’s voice today?
PRAYER FOCUS
To respond to God’s call
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