What a difference he makes. Others may try to shepherd us. Yet they end up driving us away. We find ourselves scattered. We find ourselves isolated. We fear and tremble because these shepherds don't really care for us enough that we can rely on them.
Jesus is the shepherd who does not scatter or drive away. He is the one shepherd inviting us all to his one flock (cf. Joh. 10:16). Only in him can all of the sheep find rest together.
For he is our peace, he who made both one
and broke down the dividing wall of enmity, through his flesh,
The rest are too busy thinking of themselves. They can't be a source of peace which breaks down the barriers that keep us separated from one another.
Only Jesus can do this. He shepherds us with the heart and love of the Father who sends him. Only in Jesus do we sheep want for nothing. When other shepherds find themselves in dark valleys they flee for their lives and try to keep themselves safe. Only Jesus loves us enough to stay with us in the dark valleys. Such valleys are where flocks would normally scatter. But with our shepherd we remain united.
Israel can dwell secure at last with Jesus as our king. Let us come to the table he spreads before us. He does not put himself first even when he wants to rest. His heart is moved with pity for us. Let us approach the feast he prepares for us. Surely we will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
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