“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
Sheep are not that smart- they stray and wander. Sheep fall into the rushing river, sit in the path of the wolf, and wander into the den of the bear. Sheep are lazy and slow-an easy target for a thief. Sheep need guidance and protection, they need a shepherd. We are a lot like sheep. We wander, we stray, and we sin. We make an easy target for a thief who is waiting to pounce.
Jesus says He himself is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep, and His sheep know him. He protects His sheep, guides His sheep, and watches over them. The thief comes to steal them, kill them, and destroy them. The Shepherd is different, the Good Shepherd comes to give life to the fullest.
This new year, there will be challenges and trials. There will also be a thief, Satan, who comes to steal your joy and your hope. But have no fear, the Good Shepherd is here! In Christ, you are His, and He will not let you be taken.
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. (John 10:27-28)
This new year, please remember thieves only steal what they do not own. Satan does not own you - Jesus does! Jesus came to give you life, life “to the full” . . . A Wonderful Life. In Jesus, you have eternal life and can live boldly glorifying him in all that you do.
See you Sunday as we conclude our sermon series, “It’s a Wonderful Life in Christ.” I can’t wait!
Pastor Austin
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