John 10:6 This figure of speech Jesus spoke to them, but they did not understand what those things were which He had been saying to them.
Mark 4:11-12 gives us insight into God’s love for us. “And He was saying to them, “To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God, but those who are outside get everything in parables, so that while seeing, they may see and not perceive, and while hearing, they may hear and not understand, otherwise they might return and be forgiven.” God’s love for us is revealed in that He gives us ears to hear, love, and understand His word. As we love people, we will find some will understand and receive our love as from Him whereas others will not, just like the Pharisees to whom Jesus gave the figure of speech regarding Himself and the shepherd. Do we get what He said to them? If so, we are inside His fold. Rejoice and give thanks today! If not, ask Him to teach you.
