I will set shepherds over them who will care for them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be missing, declares the LORD. – Jeremiah 23:4

Have you ever been scammed? Duped? Christmas season seems to be “duping” season. A few years ago, I ordered a sweatshirt for my granddaughter, thinking I had nabbed a great deal. The picture on their ad was the very same as the “real thing”. But when it arrived with a slightly different color and not great quality, I realized that I had been duped. I learned a valuable lesson in being more careful, looking for signs of a fake. We hear on the news of people who have been scammed, thinking they have followed a reliable source, only to find that they have been scammed out of thousands, sometimes their life savings. They certainly show fear and dismay.

This verse appears in Jeremiah as he has denounced the false shepherds. False shepherds are deceivers and liars who would mislead the sheep, the people of Judah, rather than guiding and nurturing them. The ultimate scammers!

Leaders are called to watch over their people as a shepherd cares for the sheep. Sheep are totally dependent on the shepherd who would provide food, water, and protection from predators. The sheep are vulnerable and need the shepherd to lead, guide and guard them.

This passage promises restoration, peace and hope, not just for the people of Judah during Jeremiah’s time. It is a prophecy that points to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life that all who believe in Him will not perish and cannot be snatched from His hand (John 10:11, 28).

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You that I need not fear because You are my Good Shepherd.

Daily Reading: Matthew 7

– Contributed by Vickie Petersen