This relief sculpture of Jesus, the Good Shepherd was done several years back by Paul Boecher. It still resides in Bay Pines, Florida Lutheran Church. Paul was commissioned to do this piece and his love for Jesus shines through.

The good shepherd has been the source of many special events in our lives. Psalm 23 was the message as Paul and I pledged our love before God and everyone at our wedding. Paul’s dad passed away at the young age of 56 and the message at his funeral centered around these same words. When his mother passed, this was the message as well.

“The Lord is my shepherd,” is a phrase that gives me so much comfort and peace. A shepherd will lay down his life for his sheep, by defending them against all peril. He will carry the wounded or helpless close to his breast when they cannot move on their own. He uses his staff to lead these animals to pastures that they could not find by themselves. A good shepherd will search for the one wayward sheep until he finds it. Jesus is often referred to as the Good Shepherd because we are his flock and He loves us unconditionally.

We all need a message of peace right now. The world seems to be in shambles and we are weary of the noise. We are tired of being locked up. We long to find green pastures and simply get outdoors and enjoy life again.

Jesus provides the peace we need. He protects us against our enemies. He leads us beside still waters and restores us. He walks with us through all trials and temptations. He knows our every need and provides the necessary leadership for us. Even when we face death, we need not be afraid, because He has promised us a life of perfection when we leave this world.

If you need reassurance that things are going to be alright, take a look at Psalm 23. It has become a source of peace for many.