Where are the green pastures?
One of the most well known biblical passages describes God as a shepherd leading through treacherous valleys and preparing feasts in the presence of what might otherwise frighten. This is the gift of knowing a good shepherd. His presence dwarfs valleys and fears.
But recently I stumbled while reflecting on a verse I’ve read too many times, yet not often enough.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
As I reflect on the thought that this same shepherd makes me lie down suggests I don’t often want to lie down. And the truth is at times I prefer busy and hurried activity to the pace of a guide who knows the way. I prefer to lead. I prefer to run ahead rather than to remain among the fold.
But this same shepherd who leads also directs us to where to find rest in a place that he has identified as green. What if I’ve mis-colored the place? What if he sees green where I see barrenness? What if the land is sure to be green soon, but the shepherd has led me here during a winter? This is why he is the shepherd. He knows the course and the seasons. He knows the timing of the blooming, the ripening, and the blossoming. Are we willing to wait?
I offer this musing to encourage you on your leadership and pioneering journey to find a good guide, one who knows the way. I’d recommend the Good Shepherd. He will not fail you.
And after you’ve found the guide, allow him to show you and guide you to where there are meadows even if it’s winter there now.
Lie down in green pastures.
