Leading the Sheep

It is not unusual for shepherds on Sumatra to guide their flocks with bicycles or motorcycles. This Tamiang man is leading his sheep astride his bike. The job of a shepherd is important as live stock is often the target of thieves, and on occasions of wild animals such as the rare Sumatran Tiger that is still occasionally seen in Aceh Province. The job of the shepherd is to value and protect the sheep.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd. When he saw the masses of people He was grieved. He saw them as harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:36, Mark 6:34). It is hard to be among the unreached peoples of Sumatra without understanding what the Lord felt. They are often harassed and helpless under the weight of sin and works based faith that never gives relief from shame and guilt.

Pray for faithful under-shepherds who will lead the lost sheep of Sumatra to the Good Shepherd.

Pray for courage to protect the sheep from the thieves and wild animals that seek to devour them.

Pray for believers on Sumatra to feel the same burden that Jesus had for the harassed and helpless.

Pray for rain on Sumatra. Many areas are in serious need of rain to avoid crop losses.