I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
—3 John 1:4Pastor’s Page
JUNE 2017
Health Emphasis: Establish a Sleep Schedule!
Monthly Emphasis: Graduate Sunday, Father’s Day, Youth Revival, Y.O.U. Starts
Scripture for the Month: John 9 – 10:18
Scriptural Readings for the Week
Monday, June 26 – John 10:1-3
Jesus addresses the Pharisees indirectly by telling the story of how the sheep must enter the sheepfold through the gate, rather than climbing in another way as a thief. The entrance through the gate indicates the way the shepherd enters when the gatekeeper (who recognizes him as shepherd) opens the gate. The sheep enter the same way because they recognize the voice of the shepherd.
Tuesday, June 27 – John 10:4-6
Recognition of the shepherd and response of the sheep, paints an image of listening and movement between sheep and shepherd as well as a negative contrasting relationship between the sheep and a stranger.
Wednesday, June 28 – John 10:7-10
Jesus declares, “I am the gate for the sheep.” Jesus provides a way for the sheep to enter the sheepfold.
Thursday, June 29 – John 10:11-13
Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Jesus makes it clear he is willing to die for the sheep.
Friday, June 30 – John 10:14-16
Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd, I know my own and my own know me.” Hearing the voice of Jesus is a sign of faithfulness to Jesus and his word.
Saturday, July 1 – John 10:17-18
The ultimate manifestation of love exists between the Father (God) and the Son (Jesus), and the extension of that love is towards those who follow Jesus. Jesus was not forced to lay down his life for us. Jesus chose to lay down his life for us.
Point to Ponder
How often do we encounter someone who reveals to us their true self? Jesus made it clear to the religious leaders and others in the Jewish community his true identity. Revealing himself freely and honestly was indeed problematic, but honesty can be grappled with, pondered and allows individuals to arrive at a resolve.
Prayer
God, thank you for sending your son Jesus the Christ, our “I am”. Thank you, that Jesus is the gate, and we now have a way into your sheepfold. Thank you, that Jesus is the good shepherd who willingly laid down his life, now we have life eternal. Thank you, that Jesus knows each of us, and because we choose to know him we are faithful to the work we have been gifted to do. Thank you, because of the great love of God for his only Son, and the Son’s love for us we have eternal life. AMEN!