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HOW DO I SEE JESUS?

SCRIPTURE: "I am the Good Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me-just as the Father knows me and I know the Father - and lay down my life for the sheep." - JOHN 10:14-15

As I reflect on how I see Jesus currently, He seems like my Good Shepherd. From the past, I have known Jesus as my Savior and friend. With Dan's retirement as the senior pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in June, 2016, approaching, I find myself more accurately claiming Jesus as my "Good Shepherd."  

The scripture above says "He knows His sheep and they know Him." I find that relational connection very comforting at a time when many details about my future will be changing. Being known adds intimacy to the personal relationship between the shepherd and sheep. I need that! Since Jesus is the Good Shepherd that offers the divine dimension which enhances my human capacity for finding God's purpose, direction and guidance at such 
an open time in my life. No doubt the implications can get complicated quickly as I interpret and share with Dan my self discoveries. We will need to proceed with prayer, caution, mutual discernment, and Biblical principles.

Still as I engage in this process, two books that have come to be helpful lately are Making Sense of Life's Changes, TRANSITIONS by William Bridges and Transitions by Julia Cameron. Discovering some strategies for the changes ahead have been insightful and clarifying for what's going on and what to expect for the future. Even sharing the same reading material for the two of us is a profound discovery for definitions, communication, and follow-up.

Whatever the future holds for us individually and/or as a couple, the hymn that keeps coming to mind from our Methodist Hymnal is,

"Savior, like a Shepherd lead us, much we need Thy tender care. In thy pleasant pastures feed us, for our use thy folds prepare....Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus!...Thou hast loved us, love us still."

PRAYER: Faithful and Good Shepherd, thank you, For knowing us by name, Laying down your life for us, Loving us as only You can, And blessing us abundantly! May our lives continue to radiate your Goodness and Grace! AMEN.

Jan Johnson


Please direct responses and praise to Jan by clicking here.


Please bring flowers to Easter service tomorrow morning for Trinity's "Blossoming Cross" and watch it become a special, memory place.

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