The daily struggles of life need not rob us of joy.

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“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them,
because they were harassed and helpless,
like sheep without a shepherd.”  
Matthew 9:36 ESV

Someday I think that I’ll be able to recline like this gnome and enjoy life. But such is not the case. Just as soon as I think things will settle down the phone rings, a deadline approaches or the car breaks down.  It seems that there is always something that gets in the way of relaxing.

This gnome keeps on smiling no matter the weather conditions, no matter if the dog knocks him over.

What are the things that harass us? Is it the mundane daily rituals that seem to invite boredom? Is it the relentless pressure of deadlines? Is it the constant, unsolicited “surprises” of life?

Things haven’t change much since Jesus’ day have they? Sheep without a shepherd is a good description of our lives.

Yet there is a Shepherd who has laid down his life for his sheep that they also might recline in the green grass of his love. No matter what attempts to steal your enjoyment of life, know that the Good Shepherd is your ultimate source of joy. It is he who keeps you smiling.

Copyright Douglas P Brauner