Today, we sink into the beautiful, sometimes surprising picture of God as the Good Shepherd — mostly from Ezekiel 34, with echoes in Isaiah, John 10, and Psalm 23. The talk wrestles with what it means to be sheep: prone to wandering, tempted to self-shepherd, and often convinced we know the best route. Instead, the message invites us to trust the Shepherd who searches for the lost, binds up the injured, gives rest, and even lays down his life for the flock.
Jesus is presented as the One Good Shepherd who knows each sheep by name, who goes after the one who’s gone astray, and who leads us into green pastures even through the valley of the shadow of death.
If you want something practical to take away, try praying Psalm 23 over yourself or a friend this week — there’s a simple template shared in the message that turns those lines into personal, healing prayers. And if you’re looking for community or want to connect with Mountainside, head to mcboone.com.
Bottom line: the Shepherd is not ashamed to be associated with our mess. Fix your eyes on him when the wolves howl, let him lead you, and remember — sheep with a good Shepherd turn out fine.