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Years ago, John and I raised sheep on our farm. During those years of farming, we learned many spiritual lessons. God's creatures can teach us much if we pay attention. Our sheep would come running from the back fields to the barn only if John or I called. Other people tried saying the same words but the sheep paid no attention and kept on grazing. We learned the truth taught by Christ:
"My sheep recognize my voice and I know who they are. They follow me and I give them eternal life. They will never die and no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. And no one can tear anything out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." (John 10:27-30 Phillips)
This truth of Scripture came to me again loud and clear recently due to a sweet story from Ukraine during this time of sorrow, carnage, and war. Russian volunteers had found a dog wandering, alone, scared, and hungry. They rescued it and fed and cared for it.
Days went by, when a Ukrainian man showed up and spoke to the dog. The dog was so excited that it could hardly stand on its four feet from wagging its tail so hard and fast and licking the man's face. The dog knew the master's voice, even through the loneliness and tragic circumstances of war. What a wonderful news story!
"The Spirit himself endorses our inward conviction that we really are the children of God." (Romans 8:16 Phillips)
When people accept the eternal salvation offered by God in Jesus Christ, their sin is forgiven and they become His children. Believers love and appreciate time with God in prayer, knowing that He hears.
We have recently experienced hearing the Easter story once again. On this Ascension Day, I am so thankful that I have the freedom to worship Jesus Christ. How wonderful it is to know that our Saviour is alive! We can depend on the written Word of God when it says:
"Men of Galilee, why are you standing here looking up into the sky? This very Jesus who has been taken up from you into Heaven will come back in just the same way as you have seen Him go." (Acts 1:11 Phillips)
Believers are waiting for our Saviour to call us home. What a blessed hope we have in Jesus! Are you waiting to hear His voice to come home? I am!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to encourage others to know You in a personal way. May we recognize Your voice as we live for You. Keep us mindful of Your daily goodness and comfort in times of turmoil. Help others to see what is of Christ in us. Amen.
Copyright © 2022, by Ruth Rowe <ruthjohn.rowe@PROTECTED>, first published on the PresbyCan Daily Devotional presbycan.ca .
Elliot Lake, Ontario, Canada
Reprinted from PresbyCan with author's permission
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