When you see the picture of Jesus carrying a lamb, it may evoke a tenderness — Jesus the Good Shepherd. Have you seen some of the newer paintings of Jesus carrying a full- grown sheep? As that image comes to you now, it’s something a bit different, isn’t it? Maybe you consider His strength to lift the weight. Maybe your mind wonders if this older sheep has been wounded. Maybe you ponder the longer-term relationship with a grown sheep.

God promises to carry us older ones just as surely as He lifts the younger ones. We have come through green pastures and still waters as well as the valley of the shadow of death and a table in the presence of enemies. We have seen His strength and His compassion. This longer view is the blessing for those of us with gray hairs and leads us to confidence.