Scripture: Psalm 28:9
O save your people, and bless your heritage; be their shepherd, and carry them forever.
Thought for the Day: The 18th-century French writer, Stendhal, penned these words, “The shepherd always tries to persuade the sheep that their interests and his own are the same.” In the well-known 23rd Psalm, the shepherd moves the sheep to green pastures and still waters. This sounds very comforting, but trying to explain to the sheep how the long trip is necessary is always difficult. If the sheep see even a little patch of greenish/brownish grass and a small puddle of water, they’ll be content. I wonder how often in my own life I have ignored God’s nudging because I was okay with what was right in front of me? During this Lenten Season, through the use of Spiritual Disciplines, I must work on strengthening my trust in God. I may claim God has my best interest in mind, but the nudging doesn’t always feel that way.
Prayer: O God, may I not ignore your leading and nudging and calling because of a general sense of contentment with a mediocre spiritual life. Be persistent, as I grow to better understand your vision for my life in the ongoing work of Kingdom building. Amen.
