December 1 The Good Shepherd

Have you heard about a Jesus tree? 

Last year while viewing Pinterest I stumbled upon this idea. These ornaments have a greater purpose than just decorating the tree and conjuring up memories of Christmas past. They are selected on purpose and are there to represent one of the more than 200 names of Jesus. Some people have a special tree just for this.  I decided to begin building my tree one ornament at a time. My very first ornament was Jesus as the Good Shepherd.

He is the good shepherd

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. John 10:14

During this time shepherds were of great value because the area was agricultural. Usually shepherds would care for their own flock but at times several flocks were together in a large pen and then cared for by a watchman.  When the shepherd returned, the sheep would listen for their shepherds voice and follow them out of the pen to pasture. 

Jesus is our Good Shepherd, He calls us by name, beckoning us to follow Him. Today when you hear His voice will you follow?

He will stand and shepherd his flock

in the strength of the Lord,

in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.

And they will live securely, for then his greatness

will reach to the ends of the earth. Micah 5:4

Like the ornaments, we have a greater purpose than to just be a beautiful decoration. We are here to glorify the name of Jesus and point others to him.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I praise you for being the Good Shepherd. Help me to hear and listen to Your voice today. Speak to me clearly and in ways that help me know you more as the Good Shepherd. Would you Shepherd me in your strength and love. May I glorify your name.  In Jesus’ name, Amen

Focused on Jesus

December is here.  My heart has turned from Thanksgiving to prepare for the birthday celebration of Jesus. Presents to buy, decorations to put up and parties to attend! 

What about Jesus? What shall I bring to Him, offer Him, show Him? It is His celebration after all. I must admit that often He isn't the focus of this season for me. Sure I sing silent night and get teary eyed, but the rest of the days I hurry along to fulfill my duties as chief celebrator of the holiday. Often my mind is focused on how I will spend time with People, give an excellent Present, have a great Party, and decorate and make superb Preparations. Jesus seems to get lost in all of the celebrating. My focus unfortunately is not on Him. 

This year I want December to be different, focused on the reason for Christmas, Jesus.

To help create a focus on the true reason for Christmas I am going to dedicate December's posts to the names of Jesus.  I hope you will join me!

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