Shepherd-ruler

Call in the New Testament

The Beginning of a Call
Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5) 

 

A Regal Response to Holy Light

Micah 5:1-6 The Message 

The Leader Who Will Shepherd-Rule Israel

5 But for now, prepare for the worst, victim daughter!
    The siege is set against us.
They humiliate Israel’s king,
    slapping him around like a rag doll.

2-4 But you, Bethlehem, David’s country,
    the runt of the litter—
From you will come the leader
    who will shepherd-rule Israel?
He’ll be no upstart, no pretender.
    His family tree is ancient and distinguished.
Meanwhile, Israel will be in foster homes
    until the birth pangs are over and the child is born,
And the scattered brothers come back home to the family of Israel.
He will stand tall in his shepherd-rule by God’s strength,
    centered in the majesty of God-Revealed.
And the people will have a good and safe home,
    for the whole world will hold him in respect—
    Peacemaker of the world!

5-6 And if some bullying Assyrian shows up,
    invades and violates our land, don’t worry.
We’ll put him in his place, send him packing,
    and watch his every move.
Shepherd-rule will extend as far as needed,
    to Assyria and all other Nimrod-bullies.
Our shepherd-ruler will save us from old or new enemies,
    from anyone who invades or violates our land.

For Reflection

Its enemy surrounds Judah. The siege is taking its toll. Through God's prophet, Jeremiah, Judieans are advised to surrender to Nebuchadnezzar and live. Many listen to the false prophecies that God's warnings should not be taken seriously, rationalizing that God would never allow them to die a horrible death in Judah. 

It is a choice between two fearsome outcomes for many Judeans, stay in your homes and die or surrender to the enemy and experience unknown but unimaginable sufferings in Babylonia. The dilemma is God's final request for obedience.  Who of us would choose to surrender? How many would miss God's promise of Grace in captivity? How many would sacrifice today for tomorrow's promised Christ?

Pray

Pray, so you will heed the call of God.  Pray so that you will have the courage to follow God's will and trust in God's saving Grace.

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