READ: PSALM 23; JOHN 10:1-18

Anxiety has me tossing and turning until I hear someone whispering my name from outside. I crawl out of my tent and see a man. The sun is just starting to rise, and I can make out a staff in his hand. Is this a shepherd?

As if reading my thoughts, he says, “I am the good shepherd. Your shepherd.”

I follow as he motions me forward. We walk until we come to a beautiful, lush hillside.

“You’re tired.” The shepherd grabs a blanket that had been draped over his shoulder. “Rest.”

I stretch out on the soft blanket. The air is fresh, the sky turning blue. I close my eyes and immediately fall asleep.

I don’t know how long I sleep, but I feel refreshed when I wake up. The shepherd is waiting. He motions for me to follow and leads me to a peaceful river where I can drink. As we walk along the water, I feel my insides beginning to heal. My fears, my sorrows…are soothed.

We start into a valley, and I hear a growl. Suddenly, the sky seems darker. Then I see them—a pack of beasts coming toward us, teeth bared and hackles raised. The shepherd holds up his staff and stretches it out in front of him. I watch the beasts turn away.

As we continue through the valley, I am no longer afraid.

Soon, we come to an open place again. The sun shines brightly.

“Sit.” The shepherd motions to a table set up in a beautiful garden. I breathe in the scent of sweet flowers as I obey.

He brings me food. As I start to eat, I see the beasts watching me. They eye me but don’t come close; they seem to be stuck in the valley. The food is delicious, and my drink…not only is it more enjoyable than anything I have had before, but no matter how much I sip, the glass stays full.

I close my eyes, soaking in what it feels like to be cared for by this good shepherd. Never before have I experienced this feeling—this peace, this rest. • Emily Acker

• Today’s allegorical story was inspired by Psalm 23, which begins with the words, “The Lord is my shepherd.” Consider taking some time to reread Psalm 23 slowly. What sticks out to you?

• In John 10, Jesus says He is “the good shepherd.” If you know Jesus, He promises to be with you each day of your life, even when times are hard. He laid down His life for you so you could be saved from sin, death, and the devil. Because He rose again, you can know that He will bring you safely to His heavenly kingdom (2 Timothy 4:18). For more about what it means to know Jesus, see our "Know Jesus" page.

• Can you think of a time Jesus led you through a dark valley? Were there any ways He reminded you that He’s with you? Consider taking a moment to thank Him for this.

[Jesus said,] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 (NIV)