He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep.  (Isaiah 40:11)

This verse has held a special place in my heart for quite a while. As a mother, especially a mother of a special needs child, I memorized that verse, thinking of it as a mother’s promise.  I remember one time in particular when my daughter had been sick.   She was a mess and needed to get in the shower, but she was afraid.  I tried so hard to get her in that shower.  We were fighting and crying and I was at my wit’s end when God’s words came to me, “He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.”   I started singing one of her favorite songs –Here I am to Worship.  Calming down, she held my hand and took her shower.  My shepherd was leading me.  As I look at this passage now, it takes on a whole new meaning:  not only am I the mother, but also the child.

The NLT says, “He will feed his flock like a shepherd.  He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart.   He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.”  I can hardly believe that the Creator of the universe, the Ruler of all creation is leading me and holding me in his arms.  He is so awesome and mighty; I cannot wrap my mind around it.  Yet, I don’t need to tremble and cower in fear, because he is my shepherd.  Every one of my needs is met in Him.  He has me pressed against his bosom, held close to his heart –  the very place I put my own children when they are hurt or sick or crying.

 Can you feel his hand resting on your head and rubbing your back?  Can you hear his heart beating, calming you and bringing you his peace?  Can you hear his gentle words whispered in your ear?  Can you believe He came as a baby and lived on earth so he could have this relationship with you?  What amazing love!