Fat sheep have a bad reputation in parts of the Bible. But usually they are just healthy sheep. Well fed. The bad fat sheep are those who have gobbled up the food belonging to the weak sheep. But the good fat sheep have been fed well by the pasture their shepherd has led them to.

When Paul saw, for the last time, the elders of one of his difficult churches, he worried about what would become of them. Would they be eaten by wolves? Would they tear each other apart? Would some of them get skinny and underfed?

Paul was a top shepherd and he knew that the best sheep fodder was the Word of God. He said, “… I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Acts 20:32 (NIV).

He had fed them well while he was at Ephesus. And he encouraged them to keep doing the same. This church also has lots of fat sheep. Well fed by faithful shepherds. Certainly over the last four years or so. The lives of shepherds and sheep are tied together. Sheep can’t grow if they are not fed. Neither can they grow if they don’t eat.

We give thanks to our Father that Graeme has shepherded us with faithfulness and great food. He has opened the scriptures to us, nurtured us in the word of grace. We are fat and healthy as a result. And now what should we do? Give thanks. And stay healthy.

Dale 26 March 23