The Road Captain

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Many sunny days I have followed a friend as we ride through the back roads of some hilly wooded countryside. It doesn’t take me long to question the leader and where we are going to end up. Now, sometimes I am able to just relax and enjoy following. But, other times I begin to question the knowledge of the one leading this misguided tour. I question how well they know the turns and if debris lies

just around the next corner. A good leader has a good reputation and builds confidence by informing those following of upcoming dangers or blind spots in the road ahead. It takes a lot of miles to develop a trust in the person on the bike ahead of you.

Our next look at the 23rd psalm touches on this very thing. Listen how the author, King David, shares his comfort and trust in the shepherd.

1. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

It is comforting to know that Jesus takes the time to lead me if I want to follow. The shepherd doesn’t put a yoke on me and steer me only as He commands. The shepherd leads us and we often stray or become distracted by some shiny bobble or noisy attention grabber. At this point, He tenderly calls us to get back on the path and follow where He is walking.

Now let’s look at the word “righteousness”. The proper definition of this word is “right actions”. So, the shepherd leads or guides us into right actions for his name sake.

Now look at the last three words, “His name's sake”. This simply means His reputation or His good name. When I follow His leading and reflect His right actions, then I become His name sake. We become His reputation.
Now, too many times as I follow through the countryside. I get anxious and feel bored so I will speed up and pass only to find that I have missed a turn. So I am learning to let the leader lead, and to follow close enough to see the leader's style and warnings. A good leader doesn’t ride at the peak of his own ability when being followed, but takes into consideration the ability and comfort of those following them. I am so grateful that the Good Shepherd leads at a pace that is always the best for his sheep. Now, if I can just be patient and trust that this shepherd knows me better than I know myself.

Remember to always ride the narrow road and stop in and see us again.
Your riding companion, Larry.