Hello Village Church family and friends,

While doing a quick study through 1 and 2 Peter this week, I was greatly encouraged by the following verse: "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls." 1 Peter 2:25. My mind immediately went to John 10, where Jesus talks about being the Good Shepherd, and to Matthew 18:12, where Jesus talks about the shepherd who had 100 sheep and realized one of them was missing and went after it. The verse in 1 Peter 2 says "you were straying." This is a reference to the sin condition we have all inherited and are guilty of. The Bible says in this condition we are weak and dead (Romans 5:6, Ephesians 2:1). You may be asking at this point, "What exactly encouraged you?" The Shepherd! He came to bring us back into the sheepfold, to reconcile us to God (Romans 5:10). He didn't leave us straying. (Romans 5:8). This was simply a great encouragement to me to think about the love my Savior has for me. It reminded me of the words to a very simple song (The Gospel Song):

"Holy God in love became
Perfect man to bear my blame
On the cross he took my sin
By his death I live again"

I pray that these verses, thoughts, and words encourage and bless you! Lord willing, I'll see you Sunday!

Grace & Peace,
John
(You can reach Pastor John at jwhite@thevillagemi.com)