We are all bummer lambs. Each of us has experienced rejection, brokenness and has our share of wounds. Wounds that are still bleeding, wounds now scabbed over or scars from the passage of time. No matter what you and I have been through, are in the middle of or can expect to come our way, we have a Shepherd who will care for and comfort us. “He protects His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them in the fold of his garment. He gently leads those who are nursing.” Isaiah 40:11

“If you feel like a bummer lamb, understand that when Isaiah says the Lord ‘gathers’ you in His arms, he uses a Hebrew term that most often refers to assembling people into one place. It speaks of a sovereign, intentional act. He looked for you, and when He found you, he scooped you up into His arms and placed you safely and securely among His own flock. You weren’t an afterthought. You weren’t simply in the right place at the right time to catch His eye. No, in His love and in His majesty He searched for you, picked you out, picked you up, and held you firmly in His arms”. *

There’s more!

“Note that Isaiah says He carries you ‘close to his heart.” Edward Young, an Isaiah scholar, wrote about this verse, ‘In verse 10 (Isaiah 40) there had already been mention of His arm as ruling for Him. This arm is the symbol of His might and power and is sufficiently strong to gather up the sheep for protection and care. When they are in the Shepherd’s arm, nothing can harm or come near to separate them from Him. Those whom He gathers are described as lambs, i.e. the young lambs recently born. They are the weakest members of the flock and cannot possibly defend themselves against attack, and are in need of the Shepherd’s constant protection. By means of His arm He will gather them up, and in His bosom He will carry them so that they will recline in His arm against His bosom. Thus they will not have to walk themselves nor stumble nor go astray”. *

Before I bring to a conclusion what I have learned about bummer lambs; rest. You are close to His heart. Draw near to Him and find comfort in the fold of His garments. Allow Him to carry you today.

Blessings,
Kathy Withers

Kathy’s on staff at America’s KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years.  They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local Church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God’s Word.

*God Loves Broken People (And Those Who Pretend They’re Not) by Shelia Walsh, pages 16,17