Twila Paris wrote a beautiful song in 1984, The Warrior is a Child. The words both confirm the beauties of God’s grace, the strength, of his armor, and that there are still wounds. Wounds come to those in the Christian body, and when they are from inside the Christian body it can feel even harsher. Each of us has gifts, different and yet similar in that they are meant to focus on a common purpose. Looking at the role of a shepherd, we see someone that guides, someone who addresses wounds, someone who feeds them, and someone who protects them.
A guide helps the sheep know which way to go, the direction of the path which leads to grazing pastures and cool and clean water sources. A shepherd addresses the wounds of his sheep. Sometimes, the sheep will bear wounds from poor direction, chasing that elusive scent of fresh grass into a thicket of thorns. At other times, wounds come from the sharp cut of claws and teeth from a predator. As all living things, it is important that the sheep are fed. But, they shouldn’t just eat any thing. Their bodies will operate best on certain foods.
We often need help knowing which way to go. A fan of pro con lists, I have written many of them over the years trying to figure out decisions. Grabbing whatever piece of paper is handy; I draw out my T and label each side. Pro, cons – then, I start listing out all of the possible things my decision might affect. The problem is that often, I still don’t know which way to go. Instead, I need someone who knows the paths to give me some firm directions.
A shepherd is responsible for the health of the sheep, meaning that their wounds must be tended. Strong sure hands can move over that body and know what feels amiss. Perhaps a patch has been scraped when walking in thorns. Removal of debris from the wounds and tending to the needs fulfills the role of a healer. Other animals may see sheep as easy prey, weak and without any defensive means. Wolves and lions prowl, hungry and looking for prey. Sharp claws, deadly teeth slash at the sheep and the shepherd must keep the sheep safe. But, also if an attack occurs, the survivors must be given healing touches.
Finally, there is a protector. The shepherd who stands between the predator and the prey and defends the herd, watchful eyes and ears are required, skill with the use of the staff. We each have a gift, and some of us are more aware of our enemies than others. We learn to protect through prayer. We do not rely on ourselves and our strength, but rely on God to fight for us. It is the role of the protector to be aware, to warn, to turn things over to God.
What do you do however when your protectors are tired? Especially, if the hurt is from within the body of Christ, the wound seems to be doubly deep, and infection of bitterness and feelings of betrayal easily set in. What do you do then? Yes, I do love that song by Twila Paris, as she acknowledges the hurt, but it is only in the retreat that we go to lay wounded, bruised, and broken at God’s feet. There, and only there, we are picked up and the shepherd applies the healing ointment The wounds are cleaned, bound, and we are given a time to rest. Then, donning the armor we resume our role.
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