Sheer Joy | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: Sheer Joy | Previous Challenge Entry
By Judy Sauer
05/02/07
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Haunted by the presence of personal failure, Roberto walks into the library hoping to find it unoccupied so he could lose himself in a book. Reading is his passion and books allow him to be distracted from the realities of life. Once again, Roberto doubts his path in life, feeling as if he has gone astray and is utterly confused.

As he meanders through the vast library, his hand grazes a dusty book jacket sitting on a mahogany table. The title is intriguing so Roberto picks up the book “Especially for you – with all My Love” as a diversion. At first glance, it appears to be a journal but he quickly dismisses that idea after thumbing through some of the pages.

Roberto continues to flip through the book and as titles or words catch his eye, he stops to read. Becoming more engrossed with the tales, Roberto heads toward the burgundy leather chair to sit down. One story in particular grabs his attention.

You are my little sheep; priceless, precious, and loved. Any good shepherd knows that sheep are prone to wandering off. It is important that I follow you to ensure your wanderings do not put too much danger in your path. You can sometimes get yourself stuck in a thorny bush and it may take quite some time to get you free. The more you struggle and fight to free yourself, the greater your wounds become, so please just relax and know that I am here to help you out of thorny situations.

As a sheep, it is necessary to sheer the old, matted wool to remove all that weighs you down. I know it can hurt at times, especially when getting nicked which makes you bleed. Sheering leaves you bare, exposed, and vulnerable. Yet, in time, you will again be covered with a new coat of protection. Allow my blanket of abundant love to surround and protect you.

Regardless of what circumstances you face in life, you always have the Good Shepherd to turn to. If sheering of pride is necessary, it shall be done. If holding you close within loving arms is how to console your wounded body, mind, and spirit, then it shall be done.

You are at times put into situations where you need to stand up for yourself. Yet, at other times, it is necessary to simply trust that all will be okay. Allow yourself to be sheered of fear, anger, pride, or jealousy … really anything that interferes with your ability to openly receive the loving, soft touch of God’s protection. The next time something feels baaaddd, just turn to the one who knows how to comfort you like no one else can.

Trust me. I know this as truth, for I am his Son.
With all my dying love for you, Jesus

Tears wells up in Roberto’s eyes; he never expected this read type of story. Doubts and confusion begin to melt away as his tears fall from reading this love letter of sheer joy.

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