One of the most vivid images of Jesus is that of the good shepherd.
Shepherds were very common in ancient Israel. It was a hard life. The sheep had to be constantly watched. There was always the threat of wild animals.
Many Biblical heroes were shepherds including Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and King David. And the angels first revealed Jesus birth to shepherds in the field.
There are all sorts of parallels between the shepherd and Christ. A good shepherd was constantly vigilant, fearless, courageous, and patient with the flock. It is thought that in ancient Palestine the shepherd would have walked ahead of the sheep to make sure that the path was safe. And sometimes the sheep had to be encouraged to follow.
The sheep knew and responded to the voice of their shepherd. And Jesus says this His sheep also know His voice and will follow Him.
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