John 10:4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. (NIV)

As Christians, we are probably familiar with the image of Jesus as our Good Shepherd. Countless times throughout the Bible, our dear Savior is portrayed in this way: a mindful, calm presence watching over his sheep. And while it’s hard to remember that even the most important among us are like little lambs, it’s easier to picture children that way.

In John 10, Jesus talks to the Pharisees about the Good Shepherd. In verse 2 he says: “The gatekeeper opens the gate for him (the Good Shepherd), and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” A large herd of sheep would not be able to organize themselves on their own. They would not be able to walk out of the sheep pen and find a path without guidance. But they will follow their shepherd. 

Why do they follow? In verse 4, Jesus continues: “When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” The Good Shepherd’s flock can recognize the familiar sound. When they hear it, they turn their head. They look up. And, while they may not understand that voice, they know they are safe. While they cannot speak back, they know they are loved. And so, they follow.

Maybe this beautiful picture reminds you of your child. Maybe your little one responds to your voice in such a way. When you speak to your child, your child turns toward you or even smiles. If this is the extent your child can communicate, you may feel sorrow–and fear–that he or she cannot receive the salvation the loving Shepherd gives. Find rest in this reminder that the Good Shepherd’s sheep hear his voice and follow him. Jesus says later, “I know my sheep and my sheep know me–just as the Father knows me and I know the Father–and I lay down my life for the sheep.”

Jesus knows your child. Furthermore, he has died on the cross and risen from the dead for your child. Because of his loving goodness, we can be confident that we will all be together in heaven with the Good Shepherd someday, lying down in green pastures. 

Dear Lord, thank you for taking care of me and my child as you would little lambs. Please strengthen us with what we need in life by caring for us as a shepherd would care for his flock. Continue to feed our souls as well, so that we recognize your loving voice and believe that you have taken our sins away. Amen.

by Erin Stob