Reflection
In today's readings, God condemns false shepherds and promises to shepherd His people Himself. Ezekiel 34-36 reveals God's restoration plan including new hearts and spirits. Psalm 86 celebrates God's faithful love and forgiveness. John 12 shows Jesus as the ultimate shepherd preparing to lay down His life. Together they demonstrate that true leadership requires sacrificial service and transformation flows from devoted following.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God promises to be our faithful shepherd, transforming our hearts and leading us through sacrifice to restoration and new life.

Let's break this down into a simple principle:

Trust God as your shepherd, receive His transforming work in your heart, and follow Him wholeheartedly even when it requires sacrifice.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Identify one area where you've been trying to shepherd yourself instead of trusting God's guidance.

2. Ask God to reveal one way your heart needs transformation and surrender that area to Him.

3. Perform one act of sacrificial service for someone today without expecting recognition.

4. Spend 10 minutes in prayer using Psalm 86 as your guide, personalizing each verse.

5. Choose one way to honor Jesus publicly this week, following Mary's example of devotion.

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: Where are you following voices that promise security but lead you away from God's care?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. God promises to be your faithful shepherd, transforming your heart and leading you to abundant life. Let His faithful love guide you as you follow Him wholeheartedly. Until tomorrow, may you experience the Shepherd's transforming care.