Being Part of the Fold – August 20, 2000
When we hear the parable of the shepherd leaving the ninety and nine to find the one lost sheep, our attention is usually focused on the lost sheep. We think about the stray lamb wandering alone in the wilderness. We imagine the relief and comfort of being found, and the rejoicing that took place when the sheep was gathered safely back to the flock. Maybe we think of the attention and care that one sheep is receiving, and wonder if it might not be worthwhile to occasionally leave the flock ourselves. Being part of a crowd can often make us feel more alone, unnoticed, and forsaken than when we’re physically alone.
When we ponder on the situation of the ninety and nine, we realize that something else is evident in this parable: Just as much love and care are given to the sheep who stay within the fold. For one thing, before the shepherd went searching for a lost sheep, he would check to make sure the fold was secure. He would check for predators or other imminent dangers that could threaten the remaining flock. If there were any problems, he wouldn’t leave until the danger had been alleviated. Then, while searching for the one, the shepherd would listen carefully for any signs of danger that might come from the flock. In addition, the shepherd knew the needs of the flock. He knew how long he could be gone before the sheep required food or water. The shepherd also knew that while he was gone, the sheep would keep each other warm and comfort one another. They would not be completely alone.
As we ponder on this parable, we understand that the lost sheep did not receive preferential treatment. The shepherd cared equally for all one hundred sheep. When we’re tempted to think of ourselves as only one among many and therefore unnoticed or forsaken, we can remember the shepherd in the parable, and take comfort in the fact that the Good Shepherd likewise cares for us. He loves us. He knows us, and blesses us with the things we need. That’s why we can forget about ourselves, and concentrate on comforting and encouraging others in the flock.
Program #3705