As Jesus’ disciples return from their preaching tour, they are clamored with thronging crowds that provide no opportunity for rest. In the midst of complete exhaustion, they find out that John the Baptist has been executed in Herod’s palace. In that moment, the same Jesus that slept on a pillow during a raging storm gathers His disciples to a small boat to seek much-needed rest. Jesus shoulders the load. He protects the disciples in their vulnerable state, and He feeds the crowds that won’t give His disciples time to eat. Jesus protects, provides and meets all our needs as only the Good Shepherd can.

  1. The Good Shepherd provides green pastures and still waters. Vs 30-32
    1. Our personal welfare often depends on finding proper rest.
    2. Our efforts to share the Gospel should be evaluated.
  2. The Good Shepherd compassionately gives us what we need the most. Vs 33-34
    1. There will always be more work waiting for us.
    2. Jesus compassionately shepherded the crowd.
    3. Jesus shouldered the load when the disciples were weary.
  3. The Good Shepherd cares about more than just spiritual needs. Vs 35-44
    1. Physical needs mattered to the disciples and Jesus.
    2. Physical needs can seem impossible to address.
    3. Impossible needs teach us faith in Jesus.
    4. What we have is never enough.
    5. With Jesus we will never run short.