The service this Sunday will focus on the Shepherd theme. What is astounding is that Jesus is both the lamb and the shepherd! Since the service will be joint worship with Moraine Valley Community Church, both pastors will be giving reflections on this theme.
First, Jesus as the lamb. The Bible is rich in this imagery. The lamb was the animal to be sacrificed for the Passover. This sacrifice would point to Jesus as being the lamb who sacrificed himself for us. We have these words by the evangelist John: "The next day he (John the Baptist) saw Jesus coming toward him and declared: 'Here is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.'" John 1:29
As the lamb, Jesus could identify with each one of us. How much this would qualify him to be our shepherd! We have these words of our Lord: "I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11
Jesus as our good shepherd is one who is totally concerned with our welfare. He will not neglect us in any way. We are under his total care. Jesus would also say: "My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me." John 10:27. Do you see how closely we are connected to Jesus? We are able to hear his voice. Moreover, we are those who follow him. Yes, this following involves listening for him.
In preparation you may want to reflect on how you would listen for the voice of this shepherd in your own life. May God's blessing be upon your preparation for worship this Sunday.
Please note: The service which will be at 10:30 a.m. and will feature Praise Dancers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chicago who will present liturgical dance .
Pastor Marty
First, Jesus as the lamb. The Bible is rich in this imagery. The lamb was the animal to be sacrificed for the Passover. This sacrifice would point to Jesus as being the lamb who sacrificed himself for us. We have these words by the evangelist John: "The next day he (John the Baptist) saw Jesus coming toward him and declared: 'Here is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.'" John 1:29
As the lamb, Jesus could identify with each one of us. How much this would qualify him to be our shepherd! We have these words of our Lord: "I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11
Jesus as our good shepherd is one who is totally concerned with our welfare. He will not neglect us in any way. We are under his total care. Jesus would also say: "My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me." John 10:27. Do you see how closely we are connected to Jesus? We are able to hear his voice. Moreover, we are those who follow him. Yes, this following involves listening for him.
In preparation you may want to reflect on how you would listen for the voice of this shepherd in your own life. May God's blessing be upon your preparation for worship this Sunday.
Please note: The service which will be at 10:30 a.m. and will feature Praise Dancers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chicago who will present liturgical dance .
Pastor Marty
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