I Just Wanna be a Sheep (Baa, baa, baa)!

The title of this blog is taken from a fun song I learned at a Christian camp many years ago (as an adult, not a camper!).  One of the verses says, “I don’t want to be a Pharisee, I don’t want to be a Pharisee, because their no fair you see, I just wanna be a sheep!” This appeals to my love of word play and silliness that has meaning on several levels.

It might seem strange to claim to want to be a sheep, but in the Bible the use of sheep imagery is used many times to invite God’s people into a deeper relationship, one of loving-kindness and tender care-taking.  Those hearing the biblical stories would know lots about sheep – either from personal experience or once removed since it was an agrarian culture.  And while sheep are not known for being very intelligent, putting God in the role of shepherd is a helpful connection.

Our lections for this Sunday are full of sheep – and goats.  Jesus offers a picture of the final judgement to his disciples, saying that the Son of Man will divide the sheep and the goats – the sheep get eternal life and the goats, eternal punishment.  Now it makes sense why I wanna be a sheep! 
But it also begs the question as to why are goats so bad?  The difference is in character.  As stated above, sheep are followers – they go where they are told (for the most part) and are obedient to their shepherd.  Goats are much more independent thinkers and usually get into all kinds of mischief.  They follow their own will and way.  Translating those qualities into humans, it is interesting that our culture praises independent thinking and the “entrepreneurial spirit,” while those who follow are considered passive and weak.

The fascinating thing about being a disciple, a follower of the Good Shepherd, is that we can have all the best qualities of being a sheep AND a goat. But it does start with our need to be sheep, to be obedient to God’s will rather than our own.  Only then can we offer our gifts and talents as they will be directed in meaningful and helpful ways, such as leading others to the knowledge and love of God. 

One of the other qualities I like about sheep is that they are not worried about life.  They know the shepherd is there for them, so they are present in the moment and not distracted by what might be over the next hill.  As the busyness of the holiday season is upon us, allow yourself to take a moment (or a few!) each day to just be – be present to yourself; be present to God.  Take a few deep breathes; read a few verses of Scripture; offer a prayer of thanks for 3 things in your life.  Focus on what God is wanting you to focus on, not where the world is calling your attention.  Just be – like a sheep.

I hope you have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving.  I give thanks every day for all of you and our journey together as God’s beloved.

In Christ,

Rev. Valerie+

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