The Fourth Sunday of Advent, 2016

Sunday, December 18, 2016

The Shepherds Candle

By Patience Fort

Most likely when you think of the Shepherds Candle in the Advent Wreath, you think of the clan out on the hillside: “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.” Luke 2:8 NIV

But I have a little different approach to this week’s candle.

I’d like to take the liberty of suggesting that the Shepherd’s Candle could refer to the “Good Shepherd” – Jesus Christ the newborn King.

“Like a shepherd, he will care for his flock,
    gathering the lambs in his arms,
Hugging them as he carries them,
    leading the nursing ewes to good pasture.”

Isaiah 40:11 MSG

As was foretold of Him hundreds of years before His birth, Jesus would be the ultimate Shepherd. Can’t you just see Him gently carrying His little lambs?  And leading us?

“God, my shepherd!  I don’t need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word, you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.

Even when the way goes through Death Valley,
I’m not afraid when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.”

Psalm 23:1-4 MSG

Yes, this Shepherd King walks with us daily, guiding and guarding all the way.  And He promises that after this life, we will live with Him forever. (Psalm 23:6)  Interestingly, the Old Testament even refers to His position of honor in heaven and to His saving might at the judgement.

Hear us, Shepherd of Israel,
you who lead Joseph like a flock.
You who sit enthroned between the cherubim,
shine forth  before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh.
Awaken your might; come and save us.

Psalm 80:1-2 NIV

Today's Shepherd’s Candle reminds me that Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the newborn King is my Good and Perfect Shepherd.  He loves me. He protects me. He reins me in with his disciplinary staff. He laid down His life for me. He rose from the dead to claim victory over Satan on my behalf. He is preparing a home for me with Him in heaven where He will reign forever as the Shepherd King.

Thank you, Lord, for being my Shepherd. I am so very secure in your care.