The Barefoot Evangelist

Read John 10:1-10 with your family.

What is a shepherd?

A shepherd is someone who takes care of sheep. That might not sound like a big deal to us – we don’t usually see sheep walking down our streets – but in Jesus’ time, it was a very important job. Shepherds stayed close to their sheep. They made sure they had food, water, and were safe. They even knew each sheep well enough to notice if one was missing.

When Jesus says, “I am the Good Shepherd,” he’s not talking about sheep like animals. He’s talking about people – about us. He’s saying that he knows us, pays attention to us, and cares about what happens to us, even when no one else notices. A good shepherd doesn’t just watch from far away – they stay close.

So what does that mean if you live in a city or a suburb and have never seen a shepherd? Think about the people in your life who help keep you safe, help you learn, and make sure you’re okay – parents, teachers, coaches, friends. Now imagine someone who does that even more gently, more patiently, and more consistently.

Jesus as the Good Shepherd means you are not on your own. You are seen. You are known. And even when things feel confusing or messy, there is someone who stays with you and helps guide you forward – step by step, just like a shepherd walking with their sheep.

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