When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. – Matthew 9:36
Throughout my ministerial training there was a great emphasis on the importance of pastors caring for the “flock” – the “sheep” God had entrusted to them. “Sheep” were those people who were members or faithful attenders of the local body of believers. References to Jesus’ instructions to Peter in John 21 (feed my sheep) were almost always used to admonish pastors to teach the Word faithfully to the flock gathered on Sundays, Wednesdays and any other time they assembled.
While I don’t totally disagree with that responsibility for the flock that assembles, it is obvious that Jesus saw His flock differently. He recognized that some were lost, harassed, caught in the stuff of life and unable to assemble with the rest of the sheep either because of distraction or because they weren’t aware there was a safe place for sheep to gather and feed. So sheep gather in dangerous places or wonder alone – lost and helpless.
The “sheep crossing” sign was a gift – not because I am a pastor but because I once raised sheep. It has served to remind me that nearly every where I turn, there are sheep. There are sheep at the local Walmart, in the neighborhood park, driving down the interstate, sitting in government offices, attending classes at the local university or public school. Some are harassed, caught in addictions and unhealthy relationships and totally lost.
We have this incredible opportunity to seek the lost sheep and show them a Shepherd who can lead them to green pastures and still waters and to places of safety.
