09/05/2026
Over the years, I've heard several sermons about this parable, with the emphasis on Jesus as the shepherd willing to lay down his life for his flock. Several verses after Jesus states that he is the Good Shepherd are these words from John, which invite me to think about the sheep that were of the flock, yet for whatever reason, do not belong. Although I grew up in the church, I have many friends who did not. But I strongly believe they are part of Jesus's flock, too. With these friends, I may use non-religious references or share experiences they're more familiar with than biblical ones. But it's curious to me that one of these friends often uses the phrase "gospel truth" to make a point, and another offers an "amen" when he agrees with me. Perhaps they are the sheep not obviously in the fold, but nevertheless in the flock. In these words from John, I hear Jesus calling me to help bring these friends to the fold, to witness to the love of Christ, so they can listen to his voice and come to know the Good Shepherd.
Inspiring readers since 1935, the Forward Day by Day meditation is a significant resource for daily prayer and Bible study to more than a half million readers worldwide.
