GENTLE SHEPHERD

          "He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young." Isaiah 50:11

          A good shepherd cares for his flock. He feeds them, he guides them, he guards them, he heals them, he restores them.  And scripture often portrays us as sheep who need a shepherd.  "The Lord is my Shepherd, I have all that I need."  Psalm 23:1 (NLT)

          Over the centuries many hymns and choruses have been written describing this relationship.  One of these was penned by Bill and Gloria Gather, two of the most prolific musicians and song writers of our times.

           When Gloria was a new mother, parenting without any experience, and evidently fairly aware that she and her husband might get some things wrong. Gloria says she and her husband needed a "Gentle Shepherd" to help them guide their young, in the same way an owner cares for each sheep. Admitting that one is naïve, without all the correct procedures and ultimate answers, was a lesson that Gloria sounds like she probably relearned as she and Bill dealt with each of their children. No two kids are the same, and so the gentle, light touch of the parent as an authority is so necessary for child-rearing..

          Gloria related how a trip to England with her daughter's family reminded her once again of how sheep and their caretakers behave. The sheep often stray, sometimes into dangerous territory. And, the shepherds are very cautious with those under their care, aware that the sheep are vulnerable, easily misled creatures. We, like the sheep, may be misguided, but at least in admitting our condition, we can run to and cling to a protector, a wise one we know is compassionately looking out for our  welfare. 

          And so in her chorus she relates our need to call upon our Shepherd for guidance and help.  And there is no other person that we can turn to for strength and protection that we need each day.

          Do you daily allow the Gentle Shepherd to guide you through the green meadows and beside peaceful steams as well as through the darkest valley and in the presence of your enemies?  Is your cup overflowing with blessings?

          Let the Gentle Shepherd lead you.          

Gentle Shepherd come and lead us

For we need you to help us find our way

Gentle Shepherd come and feed us

For we need your strength from day to day

There's no other we can turn to

Who can help us face another day

Gentle Shepherd come and lead us

For we need to you to help us find our way

Listen to it here    SHEPHERD