Because we are passholders at Biltmore Estates, our family tends to take advantage of the opportunity to drive through the grounds of the Estate, taking in its grandeur and, right now, the beauty of springtime and the lush green trees and meadows on the grounds. One of my favorite places, aside from the house itself, is the lush green fields that hold the many sheep on the property.
Along with the sheep, there is a sheep dog whose presence reminds me often of the Good Shepherd I read about in the Gospels. While this sweet pup tends to nap more often than I picture Jesus napping among His disciples, this sheep dog also guards his sheep well, approaching the electrically charged fence with a loud barking, letting me know he sees me standing near the sheep he is charged with protecting.
As I navigate a season of transition, I find myself pulled toward the idea of green pastures and quiet waters and unconditional and abounding love, all of which I know are found in the Savior. Even so, I am someone who consistently tries to create this on my own, by my own strength. It doesn’t tend to work, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. All of this reminds me of my responsibility of guiding my teenagers along their path, I see them yearning for independence but also leaning into me, seeking my support and my guidance when they aren’t certain of what direction to take next.
My hope always in those moments is that I will be as generous and abounding in love as the Good Shepherd is with me. In no way do I want to usurp their independence, but I do long to light the way along their path. Just like God does for me.
I don’t know if I am doing this well or not. But I do know that I am awed and inspired by their desire to find their way perhaps because it mirrors my own journey. Sure, like all of us, they sometimes find themselves staring at a dead end. Even so, I watch them grope about for a new direction, a different way to go. Always, I am grateful they have professionals in their lives, OTs or counselors, who can also advise them, providing additional guidance on their paths.
Whatever paths we travel and whatever guidance we receive, I am convinced we benefit from those who come alongside us and prompt our progress in the direction for which we are designed. As I have walked this path of mine, I have seen the ways the Good Shepherd can guide and lead through whatever ways He chooses and through whoever He sends to accompany us. And, of course, I am ever grateful God whispers Truth to each of us, even if we don’t necessarily hear or absorb that truth immediately. As I accompany these two remarkable young women, I am acutely aware of the Good Shepherd’s presence in the moments and in the people who are also making their way alongside our teens, shepherds all of them.