The Shepherd

My eyes rest on pictures of him
in flowing garments,
tenderly cradling a sheep in his arms,
and I feel as if I comprehend---
even though I have
never known a shepherd.

I see the care in his eyes
the gentleness in his hands,
hear the patience in his voice---
even though I have
never known a shepherd.

I feel his compassion
for my stumbling
his mending of my brokenness,
his guidance for my wandering---
even though I have never known a shepherd.

I see him feed my emptiness,
guard me through darkness,
and then I understand---

I know a shepherd.