the Good Shepherd

There was something super spiritual about listening to this message while checking cows this morning. The Cal Poly cows have been trained to respond to a call. In order to move the cows to a new pasture, we sit next to the gate and holler, "Come on cows, come on, come on!" All of our herds know that when we call them, we are leading them to a new field where there will be fresher food. When they hear us calling them, they run to the gate that we're calling from. Even the cows know to respond to the herdsmen. In the same way, my response to the Good Shepherd, who blesses us with life to the full, should be unwavering pursuit of relationship. I know that God provides an abundance of life. When I truly believe in what the Lord has for me, I run like the cows towards my Father's voice.

As it heats up, the grass dries out and we start feeding alfalfa. At the beginning of the summer, they get excited and follow any white truck that drives through Chorro because they assume that it's bringing them food. After being disappointed, they begin to recognize our white truck. They learn to differentiate between the good vehicles (the ones with food) and everything else. Similarly, only through repetition can I recognize the Father's voice. Through constant encounters in relationship, I am able to familiarize myself with his voice and follow him diligently. When I am not intentional about following him, I can get confused and listen to the world about what satisfies and how I should be living my life.

What a good reminder to trust in the Father!