GOTCHA COVERED

And when he putteth forth his

own sheep, he goeth before them,

and the sheep follow him: for they

know his voice.

John 10:4

Through the years, I have loved Psalm 23 for so many reasons.  I have loved even more reading in John 10 a reaffirmation of how Jesus is our great Shepherd.  The job of the Shepherd was to see to every aspect of his flock.  He was to protect perhaps even to death for his sheep.  He led them, walking before them to make sure of their safety and finding a lush place where the sheep could feed.  He never walked behind them, but walked before them, even speaking to them.  They knew His voice and followed.

How many times has our Shepherd Jesus, walked ahead of us preparing our way when we didn't even realize it.  He does it all the time even though we may not give His guidance a thought.  Many times, usually looking back, I can see where He had everything cared for by the time I reached a certain point of need.

It's been interesting over the last several days how God has gone ahead of Bev and myself as we have had post-funeral things to take care of. In most cases, we are meeting with people we have never met so we approach them with a little concern. Such happened this last week when we had a major tax thing to see to but hadn't met anyone we knew who could handle what we needed.  With Bev taking charge of our family business affairs, it was a concern especially for her.

I prayed about it and decided to talk to a man in our church who had made his career in the field of tax helps. I felt I should speak with him and he suggested who I could call the next day.  I did just that as he told me who in particular to call.   When I made the call to make an appointment, the gentleman had already received an e-mail from my church acquaintance. He was happy to set up an appointment for us.

We were nervous about the whole thing but our tax expert was more than a gentleman and most helpful.  He is perfect in doing what needs done.  We both commented on how the Lord had gone ahead of us in these difficult days to assure us that He is present and is in control.  He is so faithful in all our lives.  He's that Shepherd going before us to take care of us in every way.  What a comfort He is.

Thank You Father for Your loving guidance in our lives.  Help us to recognize those times when we see You functioning on our behalf.  Give us attitudes of gratitude.  In Jesus name..Amen