- Reading: John 10.11 – 16 NIVUK read by Kitty
Address
The Great "I ams"
Jesus describes himself as "I am" seven times in John's Gospel.
Each description ("I am the Good Shepherd," "I am the bread of life," etc.) takes us into the heart of who Jesus is.
"I am" is not just a personal description but echoes God's words to Moses in the desert.
In John's Gospel, "I am" is linked to the fundamentals of life.
The Shepherd lies down in front of the entrance and protects the sheep through the night.
This intimate picture of the Shepherd is full of trust and care.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows us through and through and wants to protect and keep us safe.
The Gate is the cross, where Jesus protects, leads, and opens up heaven and God's love to us.
Jesus is both the king of kings and the outcast, the one who is poor and rejected.
