No Longer The Underdog

“And I will set up one Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them, even My servant David; He shall feed them, and He shall be their Shepherd.  And I the LORD will be their God, and My Servant David, a Prince among them: I the LORD have spoken it.”  Ezekiel 34:23-24

The prophet Ezekiel began his ministry during the fifth year of the Babylonian captivity of Judah, the southern kingdom, and continued his prophecy for approximately 22 years, plenty of time to have observed Israel and her leaders.  His focus in Chapter 34 is on the rulers of Israel (shepherds) and their lack of care for the people (the flock).  The shepherds were only concerned about lining their own pockets at the expense of the flock.  They made sure they had the best food, clothes, and living accomodations, while those under their jurisdiction suffered because of the policies and procurements of the selfish leaders.  This is beginning to sound awfully familiar.

When I think back 22 years, the same amount of time that Ezekiel prophesied, even though I am not a prophet, I can see how far our nation has fallen.  Ezekiel’s description of Israel’s egotistical and greedy rulers could be used to describe leaders all around the globe.  I think about those in third world countries who personally confiscate foreign aid that is sent to help the downtrodden rather than distributing the donations to the needy.  There are those in our nation who promise all sorts of things to people in order to get votes, but once elected spend their time in trying to get reelected by making more promises rather than helping those who put them in office.  Keeping up with the daily news is enough to make us depressed, angry, and cynical.  However, there is hope and it is found in Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd.  Ezekiel is not referring to king David, but he is referring to God’s Son, the Savior of the world.  Jesus is called the Servant David because He is the “root and offspring” of David, as He referred to Himself in Revelation 22:16.

God promises in His word that He will set up one Shepherd who does care about the flock, who will feed them and guide them for all eternity.  All those who prey on the defenseless will be carried away never to inflict harm or misery on all those who trust in Christ.  I am reminded how in any competition, my Dad always pulled for the underdog.  One day God’s people will no longer be the underdog.  Revelation 22:5 tells us that we will reign with God forever and ever.  We just have to hang in there a little longer till that day comes, keeping the faith and remaining steadfast in hope.