“ The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The doorkeeper opens the door for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” John 10:2,3 NET
Great Shepherd,
Jacob called You “the God who has been my shepherd all my life long to this day.” (Genesis 48:15). You were known as the Good Shepherd even before Jesus revealed Himself as our Good Shepherd (John 10:11). And the shepherd, You, knows each one of us personally and by name. I am terrible with names. That is almost incomprehensible, except that You are God.
How lovely it is, in a crowded place, when someone calls our name and we do not feel alone! How wonderful when a friend sends a card with our name on and has remembered our birthday. You assure us that you don’t just know us as a bunch of believers, one of the crowd in a certain church, but individually. As a parent knowns their child. You know us as a shepherd knew his sheep. Their parentage, their birth, their life, their character, their weakness and their strengths.
Not only can we get to know You but You we are already known lovingly by You. Not for judgement or measurement or reprimand . . . But so we can hear You call us by name, to befriend us, take care of us, love us and lead us to where we should be. Or remain with us where You have led us. Help us get to know You like You know us.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Great Shepherd,
For our family and friends. Lead them to green pastures, refresh them. Speak to their hearts.
For our church, Ministers and lay leaders, Your leading, Your protection and provision.
For the royal family. Strength, healing.
For our Parliament, both the Commons and Lords for Your Spirit to be in their midst, leading.
For our local community, safety, good relations and employment.
For our hospitals, police and all those who keep our community safe.
For Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, places of conflict. End war. Lead, empower those who speak peace.
For those in danger from drought or hunger or natural disasters.
For those who are in positions of responsibility. Help to lead.
For us to simply hear Your voice of assurance and guidance in our daily chores, work and rest..
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Tuesday 9th April 2024
The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want;
He makes me lie in pastures green.
He leads me by the still, still waters,
His goodness restores my soul.
And I will trust in You alone,
And I will trust in You alone,
For Your endless mercy follows me,
Your goodness will lead me home.
He guides my ways in righteousness,
And He anoints my head with oil,
And my cup, it overflows with joy,
I feast on His pure delights.
And though I walk the darkest path,
I will not fear the evil one,
For You are with me, and Your rod and staff
Are the comfort I need to know.
A bonus worship song for if you have an extra few minutes!