Ezekiel 34:11-12

Ezekiel 34:11-12 (ESV):  “11 “For thus says the Lord God: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness.”

The Lord will not leave His rescuing work in the hands of unfaithful men. He Himself will gather His sheep because He is the Good Shepherd.

The “shepherds” of Israel before the exile to Babylon were nothing more than wolves in sheep’s clothing. They were called to strengthen the weak, heal the sick, bind up the injured, and seek those who were lost. Yet they did not care for the sheep—instead, they took from them. They ruled over the people with force and harshness. In other words, they focused on personal gain rather than on the needs of others. They were self-focused, and as a result the Lord stood against them. He would rescue His sheep Himself.

Who came to rescue the sheep of God? Jesus! He is the Good Shepherd (John 10). He leaves the ninety-nine to go after the one. Notice the personal pronouns: “I will feed, I will seek, I will bring them back, I will bind them up, I will strengthen them.” Jesus came as our Good Shepherd in the day of clouds and darkness. I hope you feel special—God has sent His Son to rescue you! Serve Him and make His glorious name known. Amen?

Father, we thank You for providing the Good Shepherd. Thank You for leading us into the pasture of Your peace and forgiveness. As we live under Your protection, may we also make Your Son known. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.