06/26/2023
"One does not know whether the width or the depth of this marvelous promise is the more noteworthy. Jesus Christ presents Himself before the whole race of man, and declares Himself able to deal with the needs of every individual in the tremendous whole. ‘If any man’-no matter who, where, when.
For all noble and happy life there are at least three things needed: security, sustenance, and a field for the exercise of activity. To provide these is the end of all human society and government. Jesus Christ here says that He can give all these to every one.
The imagery of the sheep and the fold is still, of course, in His mind, and colours the form of the representation. But the substance is the declaration that, to any and every soul, no matter how ringed about with danger, no matter how hampered and hindered in work, no matter how barren of all supply earth may be, He will give these, the primal requisites of life. ‘He shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.’
Now I only wish to deal with these three aspects of the blessedness of a true Christian life which our Lord holds forth here as accessible to us all: security, the unhindered exercise of activity, and sustenance or provision."
-Alexander MacLaren {1826-1910}
Summarized in modern English, Jesus offers us safety, freedom, and compassionate care when we respond to His Gospel. As horse owners and handlers, we try to emulate that care in how we tend to our animals, as God gave us charge of the earth and its livestock in the beginning. Sometimes horses don't trust people (that can be for many reasons) and it can take months of consistency to earn that trust. In that process we might get discouraged, or even doubt anything will change. But one day, that horse will surprise you and realize that you aren't out to get them. Often you'll have that horse's loyalty for life.
Now imagine Jesus, who doesn't tired out, give up, or consider you a "lost cause". He is perfectly patient and understanding. He will wait and He will show you that He is absolutely trustworthy. He knows you better than you know yourself, and knows exactly what you need moment to moment. He laid His life down for you, and there is no one that loves you more than He does.
We only need to take His hand, and step into the fulfilling life He has for us in Him. Trust Him, and find those lush, green pastures.
