The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

John 10:2 – 3

Allow me to share a few thoughts about calling the sheep.

First, this shepherd is welcome to use the gate, false shepherds are not.  They must find a devious way!

Second, this shepherd is not a hireling, but he owns the sheep!  They are his, all of them.  As owner of the sheep the shepherd pays careful attention to the needs of each sheep.  They are so different!

Third, the sheep respond only to the voice of their very own shepherd. They will not follow the enticing insinuations of another.

Fourth, their very own shepherd leads them.  That shepherd is responsible for each sheep. On their own those sheep are hopelessly lost.

I hear a verse ringing in my ears, the sheep talking, “The Lord is my shepherd.”

Jesus, I am a most thankful and willing sheep.  I am in your flock because you bought me with your own blood.  Lord Jesus, I know you care for me, beyond my reckoning, and I owe my all to you.

And, Jesus, thank you for using my very own personal name!