Podcasts about our good shepherd

Jesus cares for our eternal health and security but also cares for us in the here and now. That means Our Good Shepherd is in the healing business!

Our Good Shepherd promises that we are his sheep and that nothing can take us out of his hand. We can trust his promises.

Vicar Caleb Strutz preaches on Revelation 7:9-17 with the theme Mixed Metaphor for Our Good Shepherd

“A Promise of Our Good Shepherd”1. He searches for and gathers His lost sheep.2. He protects and nurtures them.3. Finally, He brings them home to Heaven.

"Our Good Shepherd." A sermon preached by Rev. Beth Tipps on April 27th, 2025. ESV SCRIPTURE REFERENCE. Head over to restorationarlington.org to learn more about Restoration Anglican Church. We're a church in Arlington that connects people to God, to others, and to the needs of the world. We'd love for you to join us online or in-person soon.

SCRIPTURE: John 10:11-18   The post Knowing Jesus, Our Good Shepherd first appeared on Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church.

John 10:1-18 | Jesus, Our Good Shepherd_02.09.25 by Calvary Chapel Lynchburg

Our Good Shepherd is leading us to still waters, to a life of peace. What does it mean to live life by the still waters, and how can we make that our pursuit in our lives?  Can we help you with your walk with God? We'd love to hear from you! https://www.thebibleway.com/contact/send-a-message

September 7, 2024 Today's Reading: Introit for Pentecost 16 - Psalm 28:1-2, 6-7; antiphon: Psalm 28:8Daily Lectionary: 2 Kings 4:38-5:8; Ephesians 6:1-24“The Lord is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed.” (Psalm 28:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. What separates those who have faith in God and those who do not? If you look just at the outside of someone's life, you may not see much of a difference, especially when it comes to having difficulties or experiencing suffering. Believers and unbelievers alike face hard times in their lives and even great tragedy. Being a Christian doesn't give us a pass from heartbreak or disaster, but we do know who to put our trust in when we are overwhelmed with hardship. We turn in faith to God and call on his name.  In this psalm, we find David at his rope's end; he feels himself sinking under the weight of his struggles. He doesn't turn inward to find inner strength; he has none. He doesn't turn to other people or things to give him hope or peace. No, David turns to the one who will not let him down, no matter how bad things may seem. He turns to the Lord, who is his rock and his refuge. That's what faith does, and that's who faith trusts: the one true God who promises to hear us and never abandon those who belong to him. David is teaching us what faith looks like in the middle of the whirlwinds and storms of life.  David is not only a portrait of every believer but a foreshadowing of our Lord Jesus. He, too, was not exempt from suffering, even though he was God. He, too, felt abandoned at the grimmest time of his earthly life – being crucified and dying on a Roman cross. He cried out, “My God, my God why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). And yet, Jesus never loses faith. He endures in faith and finally calls out in his dying breath, “Into your hands I commit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46) That's faith talk. That's what faith does, even in the darkest of times when you feel God is nowhere in sight.  David prayed, and he invites us to pray in the thick of our struggles through the words of this psalm, “The Lord is my strength and my shield, in him my heart trusts, and I am helped” (Psalm 28:7). We may not see it, and we may not feel it, but faith prays and trusts in the Lord who is our saving refuge. David's prayer and ours finally finds its “amen” in Jesus. “Oh, save your people and bless your heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever” (Psalm 28:9). Our Good Shepherd has laid down his life for us and will carry us through life and into the joys of heaven! In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Jesus, refuge of the weary, Blest Redeemer, whom we love, Fountain in life's desert dreary, Savior from the world above: Often have your eyes, offended, Gazed upon the sinner's fall; Yet upon the cross extended, You have borne the pain of all. (LSB 423:1) -Rev. Darrin Sheek, pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Anaheim, CA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.The new Guiding Word series takes you through all the books of the Bible in six volumes. Starting with the Books of Moses—Genesis through Deuteronomy—you will explore every passage of every chapter of each book with the help of maps, diagrams, links between the testaments, and clarification points.

Our Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep, a sermon on Psalm 23 -Part 1 of 3--by Pastor Jason Van Bemmel--The LORD is My Shepherd--Our Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep--1. In Green Pastures Beside Still Waters, vv. 1-2-2. In Paths of Righteousness, v. 3-3. Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, v. 4-4. To a Banqueting Table in Enemy Territory, v. 5-5. All the Way to His House Forever, v. 6--Our Good Shepherd is With Us

Our Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep, a sermon on Psalm 23 -Part 1 of 3--by Pastor Jason Van Bemmel--The LORD is My Shepherd--Our Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep--1. In Green Pastures Beside Still Waters, vv. 1-2-2. In Paths of Righteousness, v. 3-3. Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, v. 4-4. To a Banqueting Table in Enemy Territory, v. 5-5. All the Way to His House Forever, v. 6--Our Good Shepherd is With Us

I Am Known #RTTBROS #nightlight I Am Known "I know my sheep, and am known of mine." - John 10:14 In our fast-paced, overcrowded world, it's easy to feel like just another face in the crowd. But take heart, friend! Our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, knows each of us intimately and personally. Consider this: As a teacher's class size grows, their knowledge of individual students often diminishes. Not so with our Lord! To Him, there are no faceless masses. Whether it's a handful or "a multitude which no man can number" (Revelation 7:9), each of us remains a distinct individual in His sight. Imagine that! The Creator of the universe knows you by name, understands your unique struggles, and recognizes your specific needs. If you've strayed from the fold, He notices your absence and actively seeks you out. That's the kind of personal attention our Shepherd provides. But it's not just a one-way street. Jesus says, "I am known of mine" (John 10:14). As we walk with Him daily, our ability to recognize His voice grows stronger. In a world full of counterfeits and false shepherds, this discernment is crucial. Remember, even "Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14). He can put on a convincing shepherd disguise. But the more time we spend with our true Shepherd, the sharper our spiritual senses become. We learn to see through the facades and distinguish the genuine from the fake. So, dear friend, draw close to your Shepherd today. Revel in the fact that He knows you intimately, and commit to knowing Him more deeply. In this mutual recognition, you'll find unshakeable confidence and abiding peace. https://linktr.ee/rttbros Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out. https://linktr.ee/rttbros

"Can You Hear the Shepherd?" Our Good Shepherd speaks to us. Can you hear him? :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Today's episode featured work from these artists: Music: "Big Bear" by Jonny Easton (www.youtube.com/jonnyeaston) "Growing Up" by Scott Buckley (www.youtube.com/scottbuckley) Video: Adrian Hoparda (www.pexels.com/@adrian-hoparda-1684220)

Advent is a season of presence in which we celebrate and remember the way in which God entered the world to be present with us. Our Good Shepherd came to earth to lead us towards green pastures. He entered into hostility and laid a table before us. Our God moved into the neighborhood to pursue us in love and faithfulness.Also, during service we provided a bit of a 2023 in review which you'll hear before the sermon.

Advent is a season of presence in which we celebrate and remember the way in which God entered the world to be present with us. Our Good Shepherd came to earth to lead us towards green pastures. He entered into hostility and laid a table before us. Our God moved into the neighborhood to pursue us in love and faithfulness.

Advent is a season of presence in which we celebrate and remember the way in which God entered the world to be present with us. Our Good Shepherd came to earth to lead us towards green pastures. He entered into hostility and laid a table before us. Our God moved into the neighborhood to pursue us in love and faithfulness.

Don't forget to download the Episode Guide for THIS episode HERE.Did you ever get separated from your parents as a child? It's a terrifying experience as a mother to turn and realize your child has slipped away and is nowhere in sight. I've read stories where the child was so frightened they would hide in clothes racks until they heard their mother's call. Patrick Mayberry sings about our Good Shepherd in his song "Lead On Good Shepherd." Our Good Shepherd calls out for us like a mother for her lost child. He searches for us, listening for our response to His call. Then, he gathers our trembling bodies and carries us back to safety.The picture of a Good Shepherd is a thread woven throughout the Old and New Testaments. Let's pull on this thread together in this week's episode. In this episode, I discuss the following:Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture – this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Meditating on ScriptureRepetitionConsult an outside resourceEpisode Guide DownloadSavoring God's words -- especially those most familiar to us Here is the YouTube video of the Tootsie Pop commercial I mentioned - YouTube Video Link"The Good Shepherd: A Thousand-Year Journey from Psalm 23 to the New Testament" by Kenneth Bailey - Amazon Paid LinkImages of the Good Shepherd in the earliest catacombs - article linkComparing the texts of Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, and Luke 15Uncovering a better translation for Psalm 23:3 -- rather than "he restores my soul," it's better translated as "he brings me back" -- a common thread in Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, and Luke 15Responding to the Shepherd's call and accepting being foundWe should be slowing down and savoring God's words more than we devour the words of others.Additional ResourcesLyrics for "Lead On Good Shepherd" by Patrick Mayberry - New Release TodayThe story behind the song "Lead On Good Shepherd" by Patrick Mayberry - KLove.com Article"The Good Shepherd: A Thousand-Year Journey from Psalm 23 to the New Testament" by Kenneth Bailey - Amazon Paid LinkImages of the Good Shepherd in the earliest catacombs - article linkMy favorite Bible Study Software - Logos Bible Software Affiliate LinkThis Week's ChallengeRead Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, and Luke 15 this week. I've thrown out a pile of threads for you to examine in light of the whole. Take one thread, untangle it from the rest, and view it under the microscope of each of these texts. Look for the role of the Good Shepherd and follow wherever He leads you.

In this message we dive into Psalm 23 verse 5 and the concept of the shepherd preparing a table in the presence of enemies. At first glance, the shepherd may seem to tend to his flock amidst danger, but the truth goes much deeper. We discover that the Good Shepherd goes before us, preparing a place of rest, peace, safety, and nourishment. Our Good Shepherd has prepared a table for each one of us. So, come and take your seat at the table!

“Our Good Shepherd knows what we need more than we do and provides what we need at just the right time.” Today Aubrie sits down with our Appalachian Division Coordinator, Heidi Fromke, to look at another attribute of God and dig into Psalm 23 for all the rich truth it holds. Heidi helps us see life with all its difficulties in proper perspective—through the eyes of God. He is the Good Shepherd and you lack nothing. The Moms in Prayer Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit ChristianParenting.org ABOUT OUR GUEST Learning to hold her kids loosely and trust God with them is a daily challenge which Heidi found to be especially true when her boys were just beginning school. It was during this time of trying to “let go” a bit that she found Moms in Prayer after hearing Moms in Prayer Founder, Fern Nichols, on the radio. The Lord encouraged her to start a Moms in Prayer group at her sons' school in 2003. She prayed with this group of moms for 17 years. They joined her in covering her boys, their kids and their school community. They lifted their requests to God and saw Him do immeasurably more than they could ask or imagine as He walked with them through a son's illness, Young Life established at the school, and students' hearts turned to Christ. Heidi has come to know the Lord in an amazingly intimate way as He has shown her His love for her boys and that He truly can be trusted above all else. She has been married to Mark, who has filled her days with laughter since 1990. They have three boys in their twenties and two amazing daughters-in-law! After growing up in Minnesota and spending a few years in St. Louis, they have fallen in love with North Carolina. Heidi is looking forward to watching God work as He draws other moms to experience His power, grace and loving acceptance through prayer! SCRIPTURES  if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 ESV  The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:10-11 ESV He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. Isaiah 40:11 ESV The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:1-6 ESV Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! Psalm 46:10 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NIV I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:16-19 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:32 ESV LINKS MOMS IN PRAYER New to Moms in Prayer? How to get started Moms in Prayer Shop Language Resources Support Our Mission

Our Good Shepherd leads us in the righteous path. Jesus said that His sheep knows His voice and the Holy Spirit has written the will of God in our hearts. For this reason, we can rest in Christ and be completely confident that our Father has the ability to lead us in the right path. In the New Covenant, all of us can know the heart of the Father! Click on this link to find my books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Martin-Re%C3%A9n/author/B0B34JVCRP?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

- LORD - I AM - covenant making, covenant keeping, Savior, Creator God-- The role of -shepherd- is a kingly one.-- Our Good Shepherd knows our deepest, truest needs, and provides for them.-- When we have no life in ourselves, He -restores my soul- - providing us with His life.-- Our Shepherd leads us along paths consistent with His covenant, allowing us to experience His grace.-- Sometimes life is awful - we're in -the valley of the darkest dark- - but there is never any reason for the Christian to fear, because our Shepherd is always with us and will always come after us when we stray.-- Jesus, our Good Shepherd, went into the dark valley ahead of us, going to the cross so we wouldn't have to.-- He has the tools necessary to deal with the enemy in time. The enemy will one day realize just how wrong they were.-- God's goodness and faithful mercy is always abundant, always enough, and always available.

Sheep without a Shepherd are in trouble. They can wander away, starve, or be torn apart by animals that prey on them. People, like sheep, need a Good Shepherd, one who will guide, provide & protect them. Today we appreciate how compassionate Our Good Shepherd really is.

As we celebrate Holy Week, let's remember together with joy the provision of our Good Shepherd, who voluntarily sacrificed His life on earth simply out of love for us. (John 10:11-21) **** Welcome to Walking in the Word, the biblical teaching arm of the Women World Leaders podcast. My name is Julie Jenkins and I am so glad you have joined us today as we delve into scripture together. As I record this, it is Holy Week – the week that Christians all over the world intentionally remember, commemorate, and celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. All that we are, our lives, and our futures are owed to God's amazing grace and the events we celebrate this week. As I grow, definitely older and hopefully wiser, I become more in awe of Jesus' death and resurrection and all that they mean for us. I pray that you intentionally take the opportunity this week to reflect on where you are in your walk with Jesus. I pray that you ask Him what He wants you to learn today. I say “today,” because, in this life, it is simply impossible for us to learn and know everything about God. But when we ask Him to show us what He wants us to learn today, we can trust that He will guide us – and give us the nuggets of wisdom that we need to live a productive and joyful life for Him. Because you are listening to this podcast, it is clear that you are listening to God. You are willingly working to grow in Him and follow Him obediently. And I want to share a feeling I have deep in my heart that He wants you to know right now: your efforts are making your God smile. He knows your days are not always easy. He knows it isn't always convenient for you to still your thoughts and focus on Him. He sees you. He loves you. And He is cheering you on. So even as you reflect this week on Jesus, know that you are in the forefront of HIS mind at EVERY moment! You don't have to take my word for it…because He tells us this Himself in the Bible. Today's teaching comes from John, chapter 10, verses 11-21. As we study together, I know you will get a deeper understanding of what it means to be a sheep under the care of THE good Shepherd. Before we dive in, let's pray… Dear Most Holy God, thank you doesn't ever seem enough, but it especially doesn't seem enough during this – the holiest of weeks. We offer you full reign over our spirits as we take time out to intentionally hear from you as we open your Word. Open our minds and hearts so that we may fully understand what you want us to know today. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. Last week as we studied together, Jesus declared Himself the gate. This was in reference to the then widely understood care of sheep. The person who acted as a gate in the sheepfold was fully in charge of allowing only the sheep's caretakers in and keeping the thieves and robbers out. We learned that Jesus, our gate, is our protector, always keeping watch over us. Jesus stands alert, ready to keep intruders from our lives. Our responsibility is to always turn to Him as our authoritative source. This teaching came on the heels of the Pharisees throwing the man Jesus had healed, the one who had been blind from birth, out of the temple for boldly speaking the truth about the man Jesus, who healed him, and declaring that Jesus must be from God because no one else could miraculously heal as He had. In today's teaching, we learn more about Jesus as He shares that not only is He the gate, but He is also THE Good Shepherd. Let's begin in John 10:11 from the New Living Translation:  11 “I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don't belong to him and he isn't their Shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he's working only for the money and doesn't really care about the sheep. Jesus is the good Shepherd. The fact that He declares Himself THE Good Shepherd and not A Good Shepherd underscores that He is uniquely qualified and capable. There are no other shepherds like Him. And as He declares himself the GOOD Shephered…let's see what He means by using the word “good.” Of course, Jesus IS morally good…we know He never sinned. But good means so much more than that – it means that Jesus is the beautiful Shepherd; He possesses all we can imagine that is right for the job of protecting and caring for the sheep - He is loving, attentive, smart, powerful, and gracious. He is THE GOOD Shepherd, unlike any we have ever known or will ever know.   Jesus contrasts Himself to a hired hand, who runs when he sees a wolf coming, abandoning the sheep as he looks out for himself. Can you relate? As Christians, we are all shepherds of someone – we all have sheep to lead. We may have children, lead ministries, or have others who look up to us in our personal life, on social media, or in our workplaces. Think about who you have been called to shepherd. Now…think about HOW you shepherd them. Are you willing to put YOUR life on the line for those you lead? I often hear people bail on their responsibilities, saying something like, “I don't get paid enough to do that.” Or, “When push comes to shove, I need to look out for number one.” I'm not here to cast judgment; if I were, I would be pointing the finger at myself. But when we think about it – who in their right mind gives up EVERYTHING for the good of someone else? And, let's be clear, that OUR Shepherd, THE GOOD SHEPHERD, not only sacrifices for those who are sweet and kind and productive, but He sacrifices everything for ALL of us…no matter our demeanor, our sin, or our nasty attitude. Jesus, your Good Shepherd, counts you worth His while to give up everything. Yes…that makes Him unique. And that should humble and awe us. Jesus continues, saying not only will He ALWAYS be there to lead, guide, and protect us, but He always do this while FULLY RECOGNIZING who we are – faults and all…Verse 14… 14 “I am the good Shepherd; I know my own sheep, Jesus KNOWS you! And, yet, Jesus LOVES you! Intellectually, we understand the concept of unconditional love. But I don't think there is a human alive who can fully comprehend the depths of unconditional love. I love my husband and my kids, but there are days…okay…I won't go there. Suffice it to say, I am not spiritually mature enough to fully harness the power of love that God has gifted me. But I try every day. I confess every day. And I THANK God EVERY DAY that despite MY faults and intentional sin, He still hasn't given up on me. And He never will. He IS MY Good Shepherd. Jesus continues, and this next line gives me hope… I know my own sheep, and they know me,  Jesus tells me that the longer I trust Him, hang around Him, and yield to Him…I will learn to know Him better! Praise God! Have you ever met someone you just really want to be like? My daughter is a fashionista. She dresses to the nines on a strict budget – I want to be like her. And do you know what? When I hang around her, I up my game. Kimberly Hobbs is one of the most gracious and loving people I know. And because I work with her day in and day out, I have learned to be more gracious and loving. When we spend time with others, we become more like them. And when we hang around with Jesus – THE GOOD Shepherd – we WILL come to know Him more and we will up our game – becoming more like Him. And if you thought THAT takeaway was thrilling…just listen to this next one…Jesus says… I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. Believer…Jesus knows you and promises that you will know Him JUST AS He knows God and God knows Him. Jesus and God and the Holy Spirit – are three peas in a pod! They are BFF's forever…and Jesus, seemingly nonchalantly, invites us to their party. Does that not blow you away?? AND…not only does Jesus invite you to His party…as the Good Shepherd…He will give HIS LIFE so that you can come!! …verse 15 So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. NOBODY made Jesus die. Yes, He was killed, but He could've jumped down from that cross at any moment. Jesus CHOSE to GIVE His life…as our Good Shepherd…so that we could be freed from the thieves and robbers – so that we can leave behind all the turmoil that sin causes us in our lives…so that we can strip off our dirty old clothes and put on robes of righteousness and enter into the greatest party ever – the one that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are hosting! And even though YOU will be the honored guest…you will REJOICE that ALL of the SHEEP that the Good Shepherd has called and who have responded…will ALSO be honored guests. Jesus says…  16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one Shepherd. Our good Shepherd – Jesus Christ – is gathering His sheep. He was as Jesus spoke these words in real time and He continues to today. He began with His sheep of Israel – His chosen nation. But then He proclaimed that there is only one flock – and He is the ONE, true Shepherd. There are indeed other sheep. Sheep who look different than us but have the same Shepherd we do. And if Jesus loves those sheep enough to die for THEM, is it too much to ask that we love them enough to work with them in unity? Let's reflect together on Jesus' next words… 17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.” THAT is what we remember this Holy Week! Our Good Shepherd has offered us freedom by choosing to lay down His life. He alone has the authority and power to lay down His life and to take it back up again. Jesus CHOSE to die for you and me. He CHOSE to endure the pain and suffering so that we could be relieved of the eternal pain and suffering we are owed. Jesus was not a martyr, He died a death of substitution, so we wouldn't have to. We truly have a reason to celebrate and to fall on our knees in awe and thanks to our Good Shepherd. As you walk through this week, will you remember Jesus' sacrifice? Will you quiet your soul and block out the noise around you to listen to His voice? Will you strive to learn more about who He is? Will you strive to become more LIKE Him? Verse 19… 19 When he said these things, the people[a] were again divided in their opinions about him. 20 Some said, “He's demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” Let's pray… Most Holy God…most loving Jesus…you alone can open the eyes of the blind. Yet you alone can do so much more. Thank you for opening our eyes just a little wider today. Thank you for allowing us to see a little more of your heart. God, we know that if we saw the whole scope of who you are, we would be struck dumb…we simply couldn't handle the glory! But despite the vast expanse between your glory and our dirty rags, you love us. Thank you for making a way for us where no other way was possible. Thank you for inviting us into your kingdom, to celebrate at YOUR party. Thank you for allowing us to know you so personally. We love you and we commit ourselves to growing more in your likeness every day. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.  

Our Good Shepherd has set us aside for a special purpose. Dig deeper into His Word to discover God's purpose and plan for your life.

"Our Good Shepherd." a sermon preached by The Rev. Nathan Dickerson on November 20, 2022.  ESV SCRIPTURE REFERENCE Head over to restorationarlington.org to learn more about Restoration Anglican Church. We're a church in Arlington that connects people to God, to others, and to the needs of the world. We'd love for you to join us online or in-person soon.

Our Good Shepherd by Ray Altman

Our Good Shepherd is there for us in the highs and lows of our daily lives, and everything in between.

(Psalm 23:6a) Our Good Shepherd has a couple of sheep dogs! When the sheep are in need or have experienced failure, God's “sheep dogs” are always there to assist. He even gives us their names! Today's broadcast will also remind us that God's blessings are meant to be shared, not just kept to ourselves. (06179220728)

Milk & Honey–Trish McCarthy–Nature's Breath (Trish encourages us to sit amongst nature long enough to slow down. You'll notice that there is a distinct rhythm that can be seen and felt, nature's unique breath. If you sit longer yet, you may even notice your own breath and rhythm begin to mimic this natural design, creating the awareness that God is present in all of his creation. Do yourself a favour today and rest by the tranquil streams that Our Good Shepherd leads you to, enabling you to restore your whole being.)

(Psalm 23:2) Sheep are skittish animals and cannot rest when they are anxious, troubled, or afraid. But in the presence of the shepherd, they find green pastures and still waters. Our Good Shepherd knows what we need. When we follow Him, He will give us peace and rest in a world filled with conflict and trouble. (06167220714) 

Episode 28Oily SonsMore for meMountain mudLesson 28          “There is a Prophet in Israel”#OldTestament2022 #comefollowme #comefollowme2022 #realtalkcomefollowmeJoin hosts Ganel-Lyn Condie and John Fossum as they discuss impactful topics from this week's Come, Follow Me lesson covering these chapters in 2 Kings 2-7. Explore these important themes, topics and questions: How does God help us use what we have? (The story of the sons and the oil)What does the story of Naaman teach us about becoming clean?How does God feel about uncleanness? What options does He give us to become clean?Can you think of times in your life when the Lord has opened your eyes and allowed you to see the “horses and chariots” supporting you with strength?—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Invitation: Ask God for the power to remember times in your life when you've felt His power and His angels surrounding you. —----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Quotes & Links: Link to Come, Follow Me Through the Old Testament Book:https://www.seagullbook.com/real-talk-real-life-scripture-journal-old-testament.htmlElder Dale Renlund quote: “​​Our Good Shepherd is unchanging and feels the same way today about sin and sinners as He did when He walked the earth. He does not recoil from us because we sin, even if He on occasion must think, “But what a sheep!” He loves us so much that He provided the way for us to repent and become clean.” (“Our Good Shepherd,” General Conference, April 2017)Elder Ronald A. Rasband quote: “We may or may not have chariots of fire sent to dispel our fears and conquer our demons, but the lesson is clear. The Lord is with us, mindful of us and blessing us in ways only He can do. Prayer can call down the strength and the revelation that we need to center our thoughts on Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. The Lord knew that at times we would feel fear. I have been there and so have you. … In this Church, we may be few in number by the way the world counts influence, but when we open our spiritual eyes, ‘they that be with us are more than they that be with them' [2 Kings 6:16]” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 18–19).Joseph Smith story reference: In mid-June 1834, Zion's Camp was encamped on a fork of the Fishing River in Missouri. Five armed Missourians rode into camp and swore that the members of Zion's Camp would “see hell before morning” (in History of the Church, 2:103). They said that a mob of more than 300 men had combined from different counties and were preparing to cross the Missouri River to destroy them. Some of the men in Zion's Camp wanted to fight, but the Prophet promised that the Lord would protect them. The Prophet declared, “Stand still and see the salvation of God” (quoted from Joseph Holbrook, “History of Joseph Holbrook, 1806–1885,” 15, in Church History in the Fulness of Times, 148.) A few minutes after the Missourians left, a small black cloud appeared in the sky. It moved eastward, unrolling like a scroll, filling the heavens with darkness. An intense storm of rain, hail, wind, thunder, and lightning struck. Zion's Camp abandoned their tents and found...—---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Real Talk is presented by Seagull Book and hosted by Ganel-Lyn Condie and John Fossum.

Jesus Beneath the Surface Part Three commences with the celebration of Easter! The One who resurrected to save our world is still in control and His name is Jesus, Our Good Shepherd. Happy Easter from Living Faith!   April 11th, 2020 Rebecca and Travis Miller   Come Join us in Service!! Online at LivingFaithMinistries.church Or you can join us for our Live services on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1lPrHtB48Matk23xuSdf9Q/featured Also check out our new Link in Bio! https://linktr.ee/livingfaithministries

Our Good Shepherd says He gives His life for the sheep (John 10:11). --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betty-stallings/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/betty-stallings/support

“Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp.” -Psalm 147:7   “Prayer is first of all, listening to God. It is the particular key which opens up the mystery of God's relationship with God's creature; it is a key which belongs to God but which God gives to all God's creatures regardless of denomination, class, or race; it is a key which is indeed, all people pray in differing forms, according to the culture and religious expressions of their own countries. As Christians we pray through the mediation of Jesus Christ.  Our prayer is both a preparation and a vehicle for arriving at the greatest prayer of thanksgiving: the Eucharist.” Gianna Gobbi, Listening to God with Children   In the atrium, everything we do is prayer: the work, the silence, the songs, the artwork, the freedom, and the discipline. The children's prayer has special qualities to it that are wonderful models to us on how to pray. The three- to six-year-old child prays almost exclusively with praise and thanksgiving. What perfect examples they are to us, especially this week as we celebrate Thanksgiving in America, to open our eyes to the abundance of gifts and to truly be thankful, like the child is thankful.    Diane Olsen joins u on the podcast again to discuss how children pray, how we can foster their prayer, and how they are examples to us in how to pray.    Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country and was recognized She is co-director of CGS at Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, Kansas. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John's College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.   To listen to another episode with Diane Olsen: https://www.cgsusa.org/episode-3/   To purchase the book Listening to God with Children: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.449472539   To purchase Advent items from our eStore: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/category.php?ref=628.0.447760526 When you shop with us, you help further the work to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children.   We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep  

Christ, Our Good Shepherd

Chapter 6. (pp. 57-59) "Our Good Shepherd has become the model for under-shepherds. His great concern is the good of the sheep. A good shepherd gives himself to the sheep."

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, "I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)Following God may take you through the valley of the shadow of death, but he protects us from danger using two tools: a rod and a staff. A rod is a long spear for fighting off external enemies like wild animals or thieves and a staff is what you see in Christmas plays where it's a stick with a hook on one end. This tool protects the sheep from their internal enemy themselves. Which tool do you think has more use? Thieves and wolves are rare, but a sheep can never escape itself. Sheep are curious animals with bad memories and poor eyesight so they need more protection from themselves than from external enemies. Our Good Shepherd protects us, sometimes even from ourselves. Our Good Shepherd protects us and draws us near to himself, which is good news for us all because he is where the joy is.

"Raise your eyes and look about; they all gather and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters in the arms of their nurses.  Then you shall be radiant at what you see, your heart shall throb and overflow, for the riches of the sea shall be emptied out before you, the wealth of nations shall be brought to you."  Isaiah 60: 4-5   Epiphany is the one-year anniversary of our podcast and 114 years since Maria Montessori dedicated a space specifically for the poor children of San Lorenzo which began her lifelong work of discovering the child and their absorbent minds.    Sherry Mock joins us today to tell us the spirit filled story of that beautiful Epiphany 114 years ago!   Sherry Mock lives in Texas with her husband.  She has been trained as a Montessori guide and in all three levels of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  She is a wife, mother, grandmother, Godmother, Bible teacher, and church and community volunteer.    Gianna Gobbi worked with Dr. Maria Montessori and was responsible for the two year old children in the Casa dei Bambini (Children's House) of Professor Adele Costa Gnocchi in Palazoo Taverna, in Rome. It was Gianna who brought the original Atrium materials, the instruments and means that distinguish the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from all other methods and programs.  The materials reflect the methodological character of our work, which is based on the educational principles of Maria Montessori. This special Commemorative Journal allows Gianna Gobbi's voice and spirit to remind us of the beauty, value, and gift of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and how we as adults, must behold, must “See” the child before us and their contemplation and enjoyment in the presence of God.  We are offering a special sale on the Commemorative Gianna Gobbi Journal!  Get $2 off with the code EPIPHANY    https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.518829251   Sherry mentions the article  "A Modest Virtue"  by Margaret Dornay in the latest Annual Journal which can be ordered here:   https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.1137536462   Sherry also shares quotes from The Child in the Church which can be purchased here: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.449714197  In this reprint of a spiritual treasure, E.M. Standing, Montessori biographer and disciple, gathers a thoughtful collection of works focused on nurturing the spiritual life of the child through Montessori educational philosophy.   You may also enjoy Montessori: On Religious Education, a compilation of 3 books that Montessori wrote on involving children in the Liturgy and opening the door to their own religious experience which can be purchased here: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.1037583913     We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep  

“And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.” Luke 1:35   Each year we go through a time of preparation, the season called Advent, to prepare ourselves for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. Yes, we give lots of time to preparing our homes, our gifts for family and friends, and preparing our hearts. But do we really embrace the reason for so much preparation? How do we prepare our children for Jesus' birth in the midst of so much anticipation for the gifts they receive at Christmas? And even during the time of celebration of Christmas, the 12 twelve days of Christmas from Christmas Day to Epiphany, how can we live the joy of the meaning of Jesus' birth that we celebrate. The Incarnation is difficult for us to grasp. It is a mystery. How is it that God becomes truly human and a human could be truly God?   Karen Maxwell joins the podcast today to help us ponder this mystery further.    Karen became involved with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1990 when her oldest daughter was four years old. She was moved by the spiritual depth offered to the youngest children and found this approach to faith formation personally enriching as well. She helped to begin all three levels of atria in the first church in Georgia to offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She also enjoys introducing adults to this method of catechesis as a CGS formation leader. Karen joined the staff for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 2004 as Director of Formation. Her work supports formation leaders and catechists through communications, conferences, ongoing formation and resources as well as in responding to a variety of inquiries and pastoral concerns about CGS. Karen is one of two US representatives to the International Council. She also was part of the first cohort to complete a Masters in Pastoral Studies in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at Aquinas Institute of Theology. Karen currently serves as a Level III catechist for a church in her area. Her children, now young adults, all were involved in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.   To listen to another episode with Karen:  https://www.cgsusa.org/episode-11/     To purchase a copy of Ways to Nurture the Relationship with God:  https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.449804387     We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep  

“Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.”  John 15:4   Rebekah Rojcewicz joins us on the podcast again today to discuss her book Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues which will be available January 6th, 2021.  She tells us about how this book came to be and what needs it will address.    Rebekah is a catechist and formation leader in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd having completed her training in 1981 in Rome with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi. She has translated several of their books and articles from the original Italian and has written and edited various parts of the CGS core texts. Rebekah is a catechist at her parish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, and for the Missionaries of Charity atrium in Memphis, Tennessee. She serves on the formation committee of CGSUSA, as well as on the International Board for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.   To pre-order your copy of Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues go to:  https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.1178214665   To listen to another episode with Rebekah: https://www.cgsusa.org/episode-2/   To purchase Advent items from our eStore: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/category.php?ref=628.0.447760526 When you shop with us, you help further the work to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children.   We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep  

“Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp.” -Psalm 147:7   “Prayer is first of all, listening to God. It is the particular key which opens up the mystery of God's relationship with God's creature; it is a key which belongs to God but which God gives to all God's creatures regardless of denomination, class, or race; it is a key which is indeed, all people pray in differing forms, according to the culture and religious expressions of their own countries. As Christians we pray through the mediation of Jesus Christ.  Our prayer is both a preparation and a vehicle for arriving at the greatest prayer of thanksgiving: the Eucharist.” Gianna Gobbi, Listening to God with Children   In the atrium, everything we do is prayer: the work, the silence, the songs, the artwork, the freedom, and the discipline. The children's prayer has special qualities to it that are wonderful models to us on how to pray. The three- to six-year-old child prays almost exclusively with praise and thanksgiving. What perfect examples they are to us, especially this week as we celebrate Thanksgiving in America, to open our eyes to the abundance of gifts and to truly be thankful, like the child is thankful.    Diane Olsen joins u on the podcast again to discuss how children pray, how we can foster their prayer, and how they are examples to us in how to pray.    Diane Olsen has been involved in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since 1990. She has received all formation levels and was recognized as a formation leader in 2002. She is actively involved leading catechist formation around the country and was recognized She is co-director of CGS at Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, Kansas. Diane has a philosophy and math degree from St. John's College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies-Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from the Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.   To listen to another episode with Diane Olsen: https://www.cgsusa.org/episode-3/   To purchase the book Listening to God with Children: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.449472539   To purchase Advent items from our eStore: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/category.php?ref=628.0.447760526 When you shop with us, you help further the work to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children.   We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep  

“Blessed are the eyes that see what you see…, for prophets and kings desired to see what you see…” Luke 10:23-24   The atrium is a place prepared for the religious life of children in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.   The atrium is also a chamber of the heart.  We have found that the heart of the child id deep and open to the loving call of our Good Shepherd.  We know that when given time and the space of an environment prepared for their religious life, children are quite content to contemplate the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.  Like Mary, in the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke, they keep all these things and ponder them in their hearts.  We have observed as well that children's spirituality is often manifested in their artwork.  We pay special attention to this artwork of children because it can profoundly articulate their relationship with God.  Mary Mirrione returns to the podcast to dive into this mystery of the children's artwork with us.   Mary Mirrione began working with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in 1992. She and a team of catechists and parents-built atria at St Anne's in Gilbert, Arizona for their 1800 children. She has been a formation leader since 1997 serving as such at home and abroad.  She also worked with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in Honduras and Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity throughout the States as well as in Manila, Philippines Western Europe and Kolkata, India.  Mary served on the Board of the National Association and is a member of first cohort at Aquinas Institute to receive a Masters in Pastoral Ministry in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. She serves as a faculty member of Kino Catechetical Institute in the Diocese of Phoenix. She is a consultant for the USCCB Subcommittee on the Catechism.  Since 2010, she serves as the National Director for the United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. For more information on this approach to religious formation with children please go to www.cgsusa.org.   Artistic Expression of Children in the Atrium by Tilde Cocchini - https://www.cgsusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2001_Artisitc-Expression-of-the-Children-in-the-Atrium.pdf   Inspiring Art Expression in the Atrium by Marty O'Bryan - https://www.cgsusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2017_Inspiring-Art-Expression-in-the-Atrium.pdf   The HeART of the Child video: https://youtu.be/s8NkMfNt4TI   The HeART of the Child Art Book - https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CatechesisGoodShepherd/default/item.php?ref=628.0.449746001   Do You See What I See? – article about The HeART of the Child exhibit- https://www.cgsusa.org/wp-content/uploads/HOC_Do-You-See-What-I-See.pdf   We are committed to providing resources and services int the living out of our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light please go to our website and donate at    https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you.    Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” Psalm 96:3   One of the core characteristics of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is that it “can be realized in any social or cultural setting.” (32 Points of Reflection of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd). Celine Mitchell shares with us how she witnessed the universality of this work as she traveled to different countries bringing Catechesis of the Good Shepherd to all, including the Missionaries of Charity.   Although Celine recently retired as Director of CGS at her parish, she continues to be involved as catechist at St. Ambrose Academy where she also is a primary Montessori teacher. Celine is a recognized  formation leader in Levels I and II. She assisted numerous parishes in starting CGS in western Pennsylvania and internationally and in her "retirement" continues to do consulting for those wanting to begin Catholic Montessori. She has led formation courses in Poland and for the Missionaries of Charity in Latvia, Brazil, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and San Francisco. Celine and her husband Bob (also a CGS catechist) have 3 grown children and 6 grandchildren and live at Good Shepherd House of Prayer.     The Characteristics of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: The 32 Points of Reflection: https://www.cgsusa.org/the-32-points-of-reflection/   Please consider taking a few minutes to fill out our survey about this podcast! If you fill out all the information in the survey between Sept 30 – October 31, 2020 there is also a chance to win the book Look at the Light! http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07ehbfwip6kfcsqsxq/start   We are committed to providing resources and services in living out our mission to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. Even while we see a decrease in income (loss of course registration fees, book sales, new memberships, and the sales of resources and materials from Shepherd's Closet.) The Light of Our Good Shepherd sustains us in these times. May you feel inspired to help others to rejoice in His Sustaining Light, please go to our website and donate at https://www.cgsusa.org/donate/  Thank you. Learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at www.cgsusa.org   Follow us on Social Media- Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” Instagram-  cgsusa Twitter- @cgsusa Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA YouTube- oneofhisheep

Week 5 of Our Good Shepherd a sermon series featuring Max Lucado..

Week 4 of Our Good Shepherd a sermon series featuring Max Lucado..

Week 3 of Our Good Shepherd a sermon series featuring Max Lucado..

Week 2 of Our Good Shepherd a sermon series featuring Max Lucado..

Week 1 of Our Good Shepherd a sermon series featuring Max Lucado..

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, "I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)Following God may take you through the valley of the shadow of death, but he protects us from danger using two tools: a rod and a staff. A rod is a long spear for fighting off external enemies like wild animals or thieves and a staff is what you see in Christmas plays where it's a stick with a hook on one end. This tool protects the sheep from their internal enemy themselves. Which tool do you think has more use? Thieves and wolves are rare, but a sheep can never escape itself. Sheep are curious animals with bad memories and poor eyesight so they need more protection from themselves than from external enemies. Our Good Shepherd protects us, sometimes even from ourselves. Our Good Shepherd protects us and draws us near to himself, which is good news for us all because he is where the joy is.

The Saturday Morning Session of the 187th General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opened with the hymn, "Do What is Right." Mormons heard from President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First President, in a talk about gathering the family of God. Brother M. Joseph Brough, second counselor in the Young Men general presidency, spoke about Heavenly Father's daily guiding hand. Elder Weatherford T. Clayton, General Authority Seventy, addressed the LDS faithful about the plan of salvation. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about "Our Good Shepherd." Elder Ulisses Soares of the Presidency of the Seventy advised Saints to confide in God unwaveringly. Elder Mark A. Bragg of the Seventy gave a message about finding good in the darkness of the word. And finally, President Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about drawing the power of Jesus Christ into our lives.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.