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Where Do I Run When I Feel Abandoned?
Where Do I Run When I Feel Abandoned?
Jesus Is the Good Shepherd Who Never Leaves
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away."
Although most of us today do not own a farm or sheep, we understand what it feels like to be left behind—especially when compared to a hired hand. We've all had friends or family who abandon us when things get hard. And I'm certain we've all felt alone, particularly in the times we've wandered far from our Shepherd.
Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is different. He doesn't run. He lays down His life for His sheep—because we belong to Him. He guards us, protects us, and keeps out the thieves. He lives in perfect alignment with the Father, and His sacrifice is not a job—it's love.
When we look around the world today, we see chaos, selfishness, and brokenness. Revelation paints a picture of a world without Christ—full of confusion and people searching for answers in all the wrong places. These are symptoms of a life lived without the Shepherd. But with Jesus, there is purpose, peace, and protection—even in the middle of the storm.
- When you feel abandoned or alone, remember that Jesus will never leave you.
- Talk as a family about a time you felt left out or let down—what helped you get through?
- Pray for people who are wandering from the Shepherd, and ask Jesus to bring them home.
- Look for ways to reflect Jesus' love to someone who feels forgotten this week.
Jesus, thank You for being the Good Shepherd who never runs away. When life is scary or lonely, help us to remember that You are always with us. Teach us to follow You and to reflect Your love to others who need a Shepherd too. Amen.
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