The Lost Sheep

I am the Good Shepherd.
I know My sheep
and
My sheep know Me.
I know each one,
each one
of My sheep
by name.
I know their voices
and each voice
is different.
I know their cries
and each cry
is different.
But
I hear each cry,
however loud;
however soft,
whether aloud
or silent.
I hear
and
I come.
I know
that you feel
lost,
abandoned,
afraid.
I know
that you feel
outside
My protection;
My care.
I know
that you fear
the darkness,
the cliff edge,
the thorny bushes
that have entrapped you.
I know.
I care
and
I come.
The darkness
is not dark
to Me.
The thorns,
which have snared you,
cannot hurt Me.
They cannot hurt Me
again.
I have bled once,
unto death
and
I have overcome.
So,
be still.
Do not be afraid.
I am coming.
I have already come.
I will rescue you.
I will restore you.
I will carry you
back;
carry you
in My arms
back home.
And there
we will rejoice.
Trust Me,
My precious one.
I am the Good Shepherd
and
you are the sheep
of My pasture.

© Kathleen Wilks