We all have experiences of being unshepherded — when the person who is supposed to be responsible for guiding and protecting us doesn't show up emotionally, spiritually, or physically. Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd.” He wants to teach us that life in him is a shepherded life, that submitting to him doesn't mean we give up freedom, but that we gain it, that it is good to be shepherded by a good shepherd.
He teaches us to listen to the shepherd's voice, be defended and disciplined by the shepherd's staff, led in the shepherd's way to the gate, and a part of the shepherd's flock.
