You have all heard the story. You have seen the
picture. A strong, lean man dressed in an ordinary tunic is carrying a sheep on
his shoulders. The flock is still some distance away. There may be some suggestion
of danger lurking in the background; but, overall, you feel glad that disaster
has been avoided and reunion is imminent.
Have you ever wondered how one sheep could wander
off from the other ninety-nine? There have been quite a few times when I have
become separated from my family at the mall or a theme park. Just a few of
them. Lots of other people moving between us. Unfamiliar territory. But how do
you get separated from such a big crowd in open country?
If you have asked that question, you probably got
this answer: “One bite at a time.” That is the way it happens with sheep. They
are pretty focused on first one clump of grass and then the next. The shepherd
may lead them to the pasture; but once they are there, each sheep becomes
intent on satisfying his or her appetite. When you are guided by your appetite,
it is not unusual to lose your way.
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