I heard a story about two kids in Argentina who were out walking in the jungle with their dog.

At some point, a puma started following, keeping pace with them. Soon, the puma pounced, ready to attack one of the kids, but the dog jumped into action. The dog fought for his two little human companions and ended up defeating the puma.

This dog put itself in harm’s way to save the humans he had the responsibility to guard. We hear stories of humans doing this too, but the greatest one ever told of someone literally exchanging their life to save the lives of others is that of Jesus.

John 10:11 tells us that Jesus is our good shepherd. Verses 14-16 go on to illustrate that this means Jesus essentially guarded us by putting Himself in harm’s way. He saw the path of destruction that we were on, and as our shepherd, He stepped in and gave up His life so that we might have eternal life.

These verses also go on to make clear that, as our good shepherd, Jesus wants to bring us to His fold. He wants all of His people to live safely together. He desires that all would be saved by His life. Anyone who chooses to respond to His voice can be part of His community.