I saw a field of green
grass and a robed shepherd. There were hundreds of sheep. Some were grazing. Some
ewes were playing and jumping. Many were moving over to the furthest corners of
the field to seek shade. As I looked across the grassy pasture, I noticed a gateway
with an arch that read, Enemy’s Field.
A few sheep were standing facing that gate, as if in contemplation. I heard the Shepherd call for them to come
closer to him. It struck me that there was a group of sheep who surrounded the
master Shepherd. They looked to be
almost in competition for His attention. Some were jumping up to grab His
hand. He picked up these little sheep
and held each one close, gently whispering words of love to each. “Why do some sheep
stay so close”? I asked. The answer came to me quickly. The sheep that
are surrounding the shepherd are those who once strayed through the arch. They
were lost but then found again by the Good Shepherd. They were sought out by Him and rescued from
the enemy’s territory. These redeemed sheep never wish to leave His side again. The memories of being away from Him are too hurtful.
It is these sheep who are constantly drawn to receive His love. It is these
rescued sheep who have no desire for the other places in the field. It is these
who want only His care.
