Words of assurance echo so loudly in this text. It does feel good when someone gives you his word. It’s quite true that, “a man’s word is his bond”. God does value his Word, which he has exalted above his name.
The spiritual leaders of Israel in Ezekiel’s time were taking advantage of God’s people. Selfishly pursuing their own interests, at the expense of God’s people, their end was certain — God’s judgment.
Christ, on the other hand, seeks those who are lost in the world. Through his Word, he restores those who have strayed, binds those that are wounded, and strengthens the weak. God’s love is limitless. He reaches out and embraces. His blood cleanses even the vilest sinner.
Our Good Shepherd goes out on his own volition, leaving the 99, to pursue one that has strayed (Matthew 18:12-13). This great Shepherd reaches out to those who are part of his fold. He cares for the needs of his sheep.
He restores marriages on the brink of divorce, prodigal children, finances, health, etc. He pursues those who have strayed from his path, who consider themselves as having fallen far from grace, until they are finally part of his fold.
He leads us, now in the fold, by the hand. He will take care of us until the day he calls us home to be with him for eternity.
Believe today that you are equally important to God as the 99. You have his Word on it.
Heavenly Father, thank you for being that Shepherd that cares for his own. You lovingly draw me to yourself, gently guiding me. Help me today, to tend to those that you have brought along my path that are feeble and hurting so I can help direct them to you, the one who binds the wounds, heals, and strengthens. Amen.
Go Deeper — Identify the "lost" people within your sphere of influence, whether it’s a close family member, relative, or neighbor. Pray about how to reach out to them this year and lovingly direct them to the Lord as God enables you through His Spirit.
Photo Credit: Jaka Škrlep