A Devotion from Jonathan Edmondson

Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.
—Luke 12:32

The prophet Isaiah foretold the appearance of Jesus in the character of a shepherd: “The Sovereign Lord … tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young” (Isa. 40:10–11). Accordingly, when our Lord appeared in human nature, he said, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:14). Jesus feeds his flock with truth and consolation. They have many powerful enemies, but he is an all-powerful friend.

Sheep are striking emblems of true Christians. Like them, the Christian is harmless, meek, and inoffensive. The malignant and violent dispositions [of our] natural beings are brought into subjection by Scriptural conversion. Thus, the lion becomes a gentle lamb; arrogant, mischievous, and turbulent human dispositions become humble, useful, meek, and gentle. A society of such people may be compared to a flock of sheep because they love to dwell together and to feed in the same pastures. In times of danger, they form themselves into a close body and look up for protection to the great Shepherd of the sheep.

The followers of Jesus are a little flock. One would have supposed from the purity of Jesus’ conduct, the wisdom displayed in his discourses, and his mighty works that the whole Jewish nation would have received him as their shepherd. This, however, was so far from being the case that he had only a few obscure individuals in his flock.

The number of genuine Christians has been very small when compared with the great mass of humanity. It does not follow that this will always be the case. There can be no doubt that Jesus will finally conquer his enemies.

The flock of Jesus are not to be afraid. Every follower of Jesus has the promise of a kingdom. With that prospect, who can yield to doubts and fears? “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not … graciously give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32). What God gives is given with pleasure. He takes delight in making us happy, and our happiness and his glory are inseparably connected.

Therefore, commit yourselves to his pastoral care. You will soon be conducted to his heavenly fold. There all his sheep will spend a blessed eternity with their heavenly Shepherd.