Loving Shepherd of thy Sheep,
Keep thy lamb, in safety keep
Nothing can thy power withstand,
none can pluck me from thy hand.
Introduction
The image of
Jesus shown above is typical of many early examples of Jesus as the Good
Shepherd. Pictures of Jesus like this carrying a lamb on his shoulders can be
found in the catacombs and on early grave stones. The Christian is shown to
have Christ as the support. Then a change takes place, later pictures show
Jesus the Good Shepherd cradling the church. We can see how an understanding
develops of Christ working through the church, rather than the individual.
Sheep listened to the church, obeyed the minister and were cared for.
Perhaps we need to move away from the idea of being
looked after by clergy and rediscover that we all have service to do ourselves.
We all have a mission and ministry and are called to serve. Christians move in
the power of God and we are to grow as we each serve and fulfil our
responsibilities to Christ.
Services April 26th - Easter 4
8.00am Holy Communion Long Crendon JW
10.30am Sung Eucharist Long Crendon JW
Followed by the APCM
10.00am Family Service Chearsley JS
6.00pm Evensong (shortened) Nether Winchendon JW
Followed by the APCM
