Devotion of the Week
June 4, 2005
By: Rev. Donald Tackett, Pastor
Macedonia and Twin Branch United Methodist Church
Laurel County, Kentucky

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. John 10:14

I am relatively new to this area, having come from Whitesburg before settling here last year. While living there, I remember that while dining at a local restaurant, I saw Congressman Hal Rogers. I immediately recognized him as I have seen him on television numerous times. Had I spoken to him that day, I am sure that he would have greeted me and shook my hand, even though he had no idea of who I was.

In the verse above, Jesus tells us something amazing. He tells us that He is the Good Shepherd and that He knows us. The very One who created us, knows us. It is important that we know Jesus, but it is more important that He knows us. The fact that He knows us means that we have a personal relationship with Him. This is vital in our Christian walk. When we are in a right relationship with God, we can have the assurance that our Lord knows us and is pleased with us. We can experience true Christian joy and the wonderful fellowship with our Lord Jesus Christ.

I may never know many important people in this world, but because I know Jesus Christ, my Savior and my Lord, I can know the joy of heaven and being in His presence forever.

I hope to see you there!