Hey there
What’s in a name? A name can be the difference of hundreds of dollars/euro etc being channeled from our accounts after purchasing an item. Seriously. Last night I was on an online sale and the prices all began in 3 digits … I was mortified! It was a sale! Then I saw some logos I recognized and it struck me that even on sale a brand maintains the maker’s reputation. Needless to say, I was considering today’s Holy Nougat
“He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.” Psalms 23:3 NLT
You see, inasmuch as the top designers are concerned about their brand; so is our Shepherd. Yes indeedy. For the Good Shepherd’s sheep OUGHT to be safe, protected, well-fed, and thriving. And because the sheep carry the Shepherd’s brand; they are extremely valuable. In fact, they are priceless! So, despite the Oughtas and the Shouldas; the Good Shepherd’s sheep are also at risk of theft, death or maiming (just like the underground market for masterpieces increase the risk of theft etc).
And sometimes, because of where the sheep travel for green pastures or because of straying; the sheep face injury. Our Good Shepherd, is prepared to accept us and our value remains at a premium; despite the damage to our soul, and the fact that that’s where our value shows.
Brands and branding matter. Not on the outside where we may be covered in rags or designer wear. But on the inside; where TRUE value and beauty are established. And, it is there, where the fact that the Good Shepherd claims and brands us makes a world of a difference. Not only are we led along paths of righteousness for the glory of the Eternal Self-sustaining One; but we carry That brand. And That brand means we are priceless (like a pearl of great value); we are loved (so much the Good Shepherd willingly died for us); and we are never truly alone (the Good Shepherd is with us ALWAYS).
Sounds to me that we are even worth more than we could ever imagine! And we are never going on discount! Not even on our worst day! Because of the name of our Shepherd; we carry eternal value – and no one or anything can take that away from us! We follow our Shepherd along the paths; knowing we are valuable and loved.
Salaam and Shalom
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
