Something about this verse caught my attention last night. I read it over again several times; it seems like it's been awhile since a scripture struck me as having something to say especially to me. (Could that be because I've not reading them much lately? My Bible time seems to end up being when I read Bible stories to the kids after breakfast. There is plenty to learn even in those moments, but not much time for actual thinking and absorbing.)
As I read this I could visualize the Lord"putting me forth", like cartoon characters being gently but purposefully pushed out on a stage. They are leaning backwards, not sure what to do, but the force behind them is more than they can resist. So out they go, feeling overwhelmed and very small. But my life is not an animated entertainment. My Shepherd puts me where He wants me (when I'm not being a stubborn sheep and doing it my way), and goes before me. That's the part that got my attention. Wherever He puts me, He's already there. He's already got things in motion when I show up on the scene. And then it's my job to follow Him. If I'm maintaining my relationship with Him, I'll recognize His voice and will know where to go. It's a funny picture to me: Jesus ushering me into where He wants me, me finding He's already there and my fears were unnecessary, and then Him taking the lead again once He's got me in place. He's behind me, then with me, then in front of me. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, which was, and which is to come." (Rev. 1:8)
1 comment:
Rose, this is a wonderful exposition of the verse. I have never seen it as you put it, something like a parade with the Lord in every position. I will hang on to this idea. Mom
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