Jacob before his death blessed the sons of Joseph: Ephraim and Manasseh. Looking back, he could state: “The God who has been my shepherd all my life long to this day.” (Genesis 48:15) King David also stated: “The Lord is my shepherd.” (Psalms 23:1)
Gone astray: All humans have an inbuilt tendency to go astray. (Isaiah 53:6) Sometimes people could lead us astray. Sadly, Rebekah, Jacob’s mother led him to go astray. She advised him to feign like his brother Esau and get the blessing. Consequently, Jacob had to run for his life.
Lost sheep: All sinners are like the lost sheep, only a loving shepherd can bring back to the fold. (Luke 15:3-7) Nevertheless, the Lord opened Jacob’s eyes to see a vision in which a ladder that reached heaven, and angels ascending and descending on it. God promised to bring him back home. (Genesis 28:10-22)
Provided sheep: Jacob was able to reach the home of his uncle Laban. There he was provided food and could stay for the next twenty years.
Hurt sheep: Jacob was emotionally hurt when he was deceived by Laban after working for seven years to marry Rachael, whom he loved. On the day of marriage, Laban hid Rachael and gave instead Leah. Again, Jacob was hurt, when he lost his son, Joseph, by the wicked conspiracy of other sons of Jacob.
Comforted sheep: For another seven years of service Jacob negotiated for Rachael. Though burdened with two wives, he was comforted and had a dozen sons.
Protected sheep: God protected Jacob from the evil intentions of his brother Esau, Uncle Laban, and the people of Shechem and surrounding nations.
Grieving sheep: When Rachael died, it was hard for him throughout his life.
Rejoicing sheep: Jacob though shocked, rejoiced to know Joseph was alive, and the Prime Minister of Egypt. As guided by God he travelled to Egypt.
Faithful sheep: Before death, he instructed that he should be buried in the Promised Land along with Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah.
Do I experience God as the shepherd of my life?