What about, ‘I am a good follower of Jesus’? How would you complete: ‘I lay down my life for…’? What does it mean to ‘lay down my life’? Whatever it is, it sounds rather like defeat or submission. If the shepherd dies to defend his sheep, who will take care of them? But Jesus says that he chooses to lay down his life ‘in order to take it up again’. He knows that he will return to continue that care. Modern society provides ‘professionals’ to give care in most areas of life, but Jesus draws a distinction between someone for whom it is ‘just a job’ and the ‘good’ carer. What is the difference?

Perhaps we shouldn’t compare ourselves only to the shepherd; perhaps we are the sheep! How do you experience life – both inside and outside the Church – are you a receiver or a giver of care? Which do you do by choice? Which should you be doing?

You may also find this week's Sermon ideas useful.