After I got over my alpaca phase, I wanted to get sheep. Every spring, I would bring the topic to my family and get enthusiastic and non-committal answers. My father thought it would be cool since sheep are a prevalently referenced animal in the Bible. My mother considered it impractical due to our Bible Camp excursions. Despite the challenges, this June, my dream was realized!
Getting the Sheep
We bribed, begged, pushed, and pulled two sheep into the back of our van. Upon getting home, I remembered that the gate my brother and I spent two weeks figuring out still didn’t have a latch! A bit of paracord later, the sheep were secured in their new home.
Soon afterward, I decided that two sheep were insufficient to qualify as a flock (and I wanted to breed my ewes). So, I got two lambs, who we named Willow and Karl. Willow is an ewe and Karl is a ram. They were both born in April of this year. Even though they are still young, Karl will be old enough to breed the ewes this winter. Hopefully, Cocoa, Bella, and Willow will have a successful lambing season next spring! Then, I want to learn how to milk them. And, I plan to shear the sheep and harvest the wool.
Building Relationships
As Daddy had hoped, the sheep have given context to many biblical metaphors and stories. After getting the sheep, I had to earn their trust. Cocoa and Bella had a loving owner before I purchased them, so they started eating out of my hand in about a week. Willow and Karl, on the other hand, are just now (after three months) allowing me to touch them. Previously, they lived with little human exposure.
Because sheep are prey animals, they startle easily and are prone to treat humans as predators. Over time, however, they are learning that I offer them food, protection, and affection. This process reminds me of Jesus’ words in John 10, “my sheep hear my voice and they know me.” My little flock is learning that I love them and want what’s best for them.
Going their own way
Even with our developing relationship, the sheep still consider their ideas as better than mine. Instead of trusting me, they tend to go their own way and put themselves in dangerous situations. Each morning, I lead the flock out from the shed and across the yard into their electric fence. Rather than following me, they regularly wander off elsewhere.
When they are inside the fence, sometimes they become unsatisfied with the grass I have provided for them. Willow, especially, tends to jump the fence because the grass is always greener on the other side. Yesterday, I was driving back from church and discovered that she had tangled herself up! Thankfully, the electrified wire had detached, so at least she wasn’t completely fried. She could have strangled herself, though. And I am so glad I was able to get her out in time.
Being a shepherd
I love spending time with my sheep. Once they eat their fill, they all lie down and bask in the sun. A few days ago, I learned what the verb, “frolic” means. The sheep were jumping wildly through the air! I thought something was wrong—it turns out they were just having fun.
By taking the role of a shepherd, I have a greater appreciation for the Good Shepherd. He loves us, knows what’s best for us, and enjoys spending time with us. When I consider how much love I have for a flock of sheep, it amazes me that his concern for us is so much greater.
I don’t know what adventures and challenges await. What I do know is my Good shepherd will be watching over me.
Some photos
