The Nature of metaphors

[jtotire]

The author begins by discussing the nature of metaphors and how they work. Meaning is derived not only through comprehensive root metaphors but also through the stories those metaphors imply. God the father and His son Jesus Christ are the ultimate shepherds. We will find a persistent, fully developed narrative of the divine Shepherd who, with his under shepherds, looks after the needs of his vulnerable flock as they wander along the margins of settled society. It is God’s flock and our responsibility is to take care of them well. It creates sense of humility and responsibility.
The shepherd imagery is embedded in royal traditions. In the Gospel it may play a role in presenting Jesus as a new Moses, a new David, or Adam. The pastoral role was central to the ongoing life of local churches in the Christian movement, and today’s pastors are still called to be shepherd after God’s own heart, to lead his people, living on the margins of settled society, to their eternal home.