Shepherd and Lamb

The little lamb and his shepherd went on a long journey. The lamb wanted for nothing. When nights were cold, the shepherd held the lamb close for warmth. When paths were steep or treacherous, the shepherd carried the lamb to safety. When the lamb grew weary from the journey, the shepherd would find a safe, green pasture to rest in. When the lamb grew hot and thirsty, the shepherd would guide him to the refreshing cool waters of a quiet stream. One time, at dusk, they approached a dark valley. The path was rocky and narrow, and in places seemed to disappear. The lamb said to the shepherd, "I can't go through that valley; I'm afraid I might fall, and be devoured by wolves that live in the bushes". The shepherd said, "Do not lose hope, my lamb, for I am with you. My rod will fight off any evil beast, and my staff will catch you if you fall and will pull you to safety." "What if I lose my way?" asked the lamb. "I AM the way", smiled the shepherd. "Stay with me and you will be kept safe". Another time, as the shepherd applied some healing oil to a wound near the lamb's ear, a family of mountain lions approached, growling, staring at the lamb, hungrily licking their lips. Holding up his rod, the shepherd looked each beast in the eye, and not one dared to approach. He handed the lamb a cup overflowing with tasty hay and pasture as their enemies watched from a distance. For the rest of the journey, the shepherd instructed the lamb with words of wisdom and comfort regarding the many pitfalls life may bring. At last, the shepherd and lamb came to a wide river. The shepherd said, "little lamb, it is time for you to cross this river without me. On the other side is my father's house where you are to dwell all your days. There are no wild beasts there, nor thorny brambles, nor wounds, hunger, or thirst. Swim across in peace, for surely goodness and mercy will follow you, and the great Spirit will guide you and protect you in my absence. I must go and prepare a place for you. Do you trust me, my lamb?" The lamb said to his shepherd, "All my life, you have been the guardian of my way. You have fed me, watered me, guided me, and risked your life to protect me. Your words are the words of life. With the hope you have given me, the courage you have modeled for me, and the wisdom you have taught me, I will endeavor to trust you always." my faith is a lamb the Lord is the Good Shepherd worthy of my trust (a re-imagining of the 23rd Psalm)