Zechariah 11:7 So I shepherded the flock marked for slaughter, particularly the oppressed of the flock. Then I took two staffs and called one Favor and the other Union, and I shepherded the flock.
What struck me about this prophetic passage in Zechariah is the magnitude of Jesus’s choice to love us unconditionally. What is portrayed in these verses is a realistic look at what could happen if the crowd you are guiding doesn’t want to be guided. Throwing up hands, being weary, anger and hurt feelings are very real possibilities. Walking away makes sense.
Zechariah 11:8-9 In one month I got rid of the three shepherds. The flock detested me, and I grew weary of them and said, “I will not be your shepherd. Let the dying die, and the perishing perish. Let those who are left eat one another’s flesh.”
But Jesus doesn’t walk away. Yet He doesn’t force. I certainly don’t respond that way. I’m quick to get in a snit when I feel I have done everything and more and my efforts are for naught. Additionally, that line between compassionate and doormat gets a little blurry sometimes in this life.
Zechariah 11:10 Then I took my staff called Favor and broke it, revoking the covenant I had made with all the nations.
Lord, Thank You for the ultimate example of love, compassion, and mercy that we see in Jesus. Help us to navigate the gray area of leaving an open door for those who are not yet ready for our compassion and laying down as a doormat for those who are simply taking advantage. Help us to give You praise and glory always. Amen.
Zechariah 11:11 It was revoked on that day, and so the oppressed of the flock who were watching me knew it was the word of the Lord.
Have a blessed day.