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

I once had a cat that was totally devoted to me. It had been rescued as a kitten from abusive circumstances. It came when I called and followed me when I went walking on the farm. It loved to snuggle on my lap and play hide and seek through the house. It always wanted to be with me. If I didn’t shut the door of my bedroom at night it wanted to sleep on my pillow with me, or it would walk up my bed in the night and purr over my face. How I loved that cat and that cat loved me because I rescued it and cared for it. In the allegory of the good shepherd, Jesus likens himself to a shepherd loving, protecting and caring for his sheep. We are likened to the flock that trust him and follow him. He has promised to guard us forever and care for our needs. Choosing to be a devoted follower of Jesus will bring a bountiful life here and for eternity.

photo by swagoren- pexels