CHRIST our SHEPHERD: “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own” (Jn 10:14). David, who well knew the characteristics of a good shepherd, describes in Psalm 23 the most convincing proof of such: contented sheep! As John Hooper (c. 1495-1555)—executed at the stake for his faith during the reign of Queen Mary I—quaintly put it, “He is not content only to wish and desire man that is lost to be found and restored, but also seeks and travails to restore and bring him home.” “For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Pet 2:25). Christ is the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep (Jn 10:11). Robert Lee says, “If an Eastern shepherd lost his life for the sheep, it would mean death for the sheep. In the Lord’s case, His death is life and safety for the sheep.” He is the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep (Heb 13:20). And He is the Chief Shepherd returning for the sheep (1 Pet 5:4).