"A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23", by W. Phillip Keller
As a group, we were enthralled by this book. Its exploration of the biblical metaphors of sheep and shepherd resonated strongly with all of us. It was particularly wonderful to learn that sheep are actually fairly stubborn, willful, dependent, and yet strangely ignorant of what is best for them (just like we are!) It was also fascinating to discover the enormous lengths to which a shepherd must go in order to protect and care for the sheep so that they thrive and prosper.One of the members of our group shared her photographs taken at an organic sheep farm in Wales, bringing the discussion to life as we examined pictures of ewes, lambs, sheep pens, upper fields, and even "Mrs. Gadabout" sheep who have strayed outside of their pens.
Much of our discussion centered on:- How are we like sheep?
- How are we not like sheep?
- How is God like a good shepherd?
- What happens to sheep with a "bad" shepherd?
- What happens to willful sheep?
- What are the conditions necessary for sheep to lie down? How are they similar to our needs?
In addition, there are great bible study questions and quotes from the book at the following link: http://www.wordwise-bible-studies.com/psalm-23-study.html.
Don't miss this book! It's great!
