John 10:6-10…“I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.” vs. 9
In the Roman catacombs the earliest artistic rendering of Jesus is as the Good Shepherd. And in the gospel of John this is how Jesus spoke of himself–it’s a familiar image. But John also reports that Jesus called himself the gate of the sheep, and this depiction can be helpful in understanding just who Jesus is for us in these crazy religious times.
To put it simply, out of all the alternatives to follow in our spiritual journeys, Jesus is the way to go out into the world and the way to come home. It is through him that our lives find the order that we crave–whenever we’re confused about our spiritual direction or purpose we look for Jesus. In the beginning, in those years when we’re just getting started with decision making and we need a model for living, Jesus is the guide we can trust. And when we enter the second half or maybe the third quarter of life, and wonder where our rest can be found, Jesus is waiting, and he will lead us home.
And how can we distinguish Jesus from all the blind guides? Well, he’ll be the One distinguished by a humble and gentle spirit, the One who is full of grace and forgiveness, and the One who exudes unconditional love. Once we spot him, he’s unforgettable–he really is the Good Shepherd.
Thought for the Day: What’s my favorite metaphor for Jesus?
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