There once was a little lamb who loved to skip and dance in the green plush meadows. There were so many other lambs that brought her company on those long days and nights. Strong, mature and aging sheep kept her close so that she would not wander off.
One day, this little lamb experienced something awful and her innocent eyes were opened to pain, suffering, and loss. That which was calm and peaceful now looked frightening and scary. Her little heart was broken and she tried to find comfort from the older sheep; but she could not find any comfort. So - instead - she strengthened her weak body, pretended everything was okay and started to play again in the meadow. But her play shouted her wounds and fears. The safe things around her no longer felt peaceful and comfortable. Now her playmates were present but distant and disconnected. She kept a playful smile on her face but deep inside, tears ran strong. No one seemed to notice that her heart was broken.
This little lamb grew up to be a strong and mature ewe. A few times she would wander off from the fold only to be brought back my the Shepherd. The wounds from her early years were closed up but left such terrible scars that felt so real and painful.
One day, she decided to find the kind Shepherd who had always been so near. She found some solace at times with the Shepherd but she would only let Him embrace her to a certain point. She felt so alone - so with courage she walked over to where the Shepherd was and sat next to Him. He gently laid His strong hand on her head. His touch was so loving and tender, yet so strong and safe. Her heart melted and she exposed her wounds to this Gentle One.
The Shepherd gently looked into her eyes and whispered, "My sweet little lamb - I know the pain and sorrow that lies within your heart. I created you. I was present with you when you experienced your pain. I did not take it away because I know the pain you experienced in the past is invaluable to your present and future. You may feel I did not protect you- but I was. There was no much more that could have happened that I did not allow. I permitted only what you needed to experience to fulfill my purpose and plan for you. I allowed only what you could handle at that time. I wiped your tears when you slept and bandaged your wounds when you bled. Through the years I have been wanting you to come to this very moment and place. I have called you, pleaded with you and cried over you. And alas - you have finally come!"
Hearing those words - this little ewe's heart was filled with peace and joy. The wounds felt lighter and the scars seemed dimmer. She realized that for so long she tried to hide her pain but it was always evident and known by Him. He was always present.
Now this aged ewe stayed very close to the Shepherd on her journey. There have been times on the journey that the Shepherd told her of other little lambs who were broken hearted and had her bring them to Him. It gave her a feeling of purpose and joy to watch other lambs find their healing. There are days when her heart is reminded of the wounds and wanderings and she wants to despair but then she catches His eye and her heart is filled with reassurance of His love and protection.
