This poem is about the Good Shepherd of John 10:11.

If it is helpful you may listen to me read the poem via the player below.

Away from the comforts of the valley farm
To the height of the mountain meadow,
We pass into a realm of foreboding harm
Stepping up, looking down, moving slow.

By the watchful Good Shepherd, we’re lead
Into the sheepfold; he calls us by name
To the enclosure where we weal, butt heads,
And bite, pushing, grumbling, casting blame.

Now lying across the doorway,
Our protector bridges the breach,
Ready to drive all danger away
Should trouble rear or reach.

The Good Shepherd seeks out the lost,
Runs at trouble, strides into strife;
Gives all — not quibbling the cost —
For the weak and defenseless, lays down his life.

© Randall Edwards 2018.
This poem is for Christ’s church. If it is helpful, please feel free to copy or reprint in church bulletins, read aloud, or repost. I only ask that an attribution be cited to myself (Randall Edwards) and this blog (backwardmutters.com). Thanks.

Artwork: Thomas Cole [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons