Reflection: 

‘Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.’ Hebrews 13:20-21 (NIV)

Don’t picture David the shepherd just sitting around journaling poetry and carving flutes. Attentive. Proactive. He knew a good shepherd from a bad one. And he knew his sheep – utterly dependent for protection, rescue, discipline and comfort. Hence the rod and staff. You can be sure that David searched for the perfect branches and fashioned them for the job.

Generations later, our Good Shepherd took radical initiative for his flock. Passing through valleys of unfathomable darkness and death, he wielded a different kind of ‘branch’. Fashioned as a cross, it staked Victory. It crushed the enemies of sin and death. But cost him his life. It cost him dishonour and separation from God.

Now that very cross avenges us

and his resurrection life comforts us.

In the face of evil, restrained and bound,

come dark paths menacing and neighbourless,

we need fear no evil or mean threat

because he’s passed through those very valleys of darkness and of death.

Prayer:  What costly comfort, Good Shepherd. Your life for mine. Thank you. Thank you for the cross.