Last month, I spoke at a Christian women’s conference in Kenya. After the meeting ended, we spent a night on safari in the Masai Mara before returning home. And God blessed me through both events. Then He gave me the idea for this modern-day parable.
“I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old.”
Psalm 78:2 NIV.
The Parable
Part One: The Guide
Our guide for the tour picked us up at our hotel early in the morning. The drive out to the Masai Mara took about five hours. And en route, he ensured our comfort with several stops for bathroom breaks and snacks. Along the way, he pointed out sights and explained the Kenyan ways to us. So, his expertise added to our adventure.
Once in the park, our guide sought the best locations to see the various animals. Also, he came to the rescue of other drivers who became stuck. And as darkness fell, he brought us to the hotel. To keep us safe for the evening, away from the prowling predators that stalked the night.
The Parable Explained
God showed me how our guide for the safari represented the pastors. A pastor cares for his flock. And he shepherds them to safety while caring for their soul needs. Also, a pastor rescues those in distress and teaches us all the ways of Christ.
Part Two: The Change in Light
As we drove around the park, a sense of peace and tranquility fell upon the lands. We watched the herds graze as they lumbered across the open savannahs. Giraffes, zebras, and elephants feed side by side. In fact, they appeared calm and with no worries as they munched on the abundant grasses.
But the scene changed as the light dwindled and the predators arrived. The slightest noises spooked the herds and sent them running off in all directions. And a nervousness filled the air as they watched and waited for the enemy to strike. Fear and dread replaced the peace from earlier.
The Parable Explained
Then God showed me how the animal’s behavior in the light versus the darkness represented when sin entered the world. In creation, peace and tranquility filled the Garden of Eden. But once sin entered, so did fear and dread as we waited for the enemy to strike us.
Part Three: The Predator
Before we headed to the lodge for the night, we watched the predators begin their hunts. Soon, a pair of cheetahs appeared, and they stalked the herds. And we noticed them searching out the weak, the young, or the animals separated from the pack. These became easy picking for the hungry cheetahs.
Then, over the next hill, we spotted a group of Topi and a lion roaming nearby. The male Topi moved to the front of the herd and formed a line of resistance. In fact, they even charged the lion and drove it away from the pack.
The Parable Explained
Again, God showed me that Satan is stalking the world. He looks for the weak and vulnerable. And he loves to separate us from other believers, so we feel alone. But those Christians who are part of a church have a better chance of standing together against the enemy’s attacks. We are stronger together.
In Summary
In conclusion, God calls us to stand firm in our faith. The enemy is on the prowl, seeking to destroy us. But, take heart; God gives us a place of safety and fellowship in his church. We are never alone in our struggles because God is always with us.
Here are some Bible verses to help us remember to stand firm in our faith:
- “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13 ESV.
- “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 ESV.
- “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 ESV.
- “Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5:9 ESV.
Some photos from the trip
Prayer
Dearest Heavenly Father. Thank you for the gift of parables to help us understand and reinforce Your message. Please continue to help us stand firm in our faith daily. Guide and direct us in the ways we should go as we follow You. And protect us from the schemes of the enemy. In Christ Jesus’ Holy name, we pray. Amen.
Great post Ms. Yvonne. I look back across my life and I see so many folks whom God has placed in my life to help guide and lead me along His path. Of course, the best guide is the One who is always with us from the moment we say “Yes”, the Holy Spirit. Thank you so much for sharing these insights with us.
Thanks JD. He is our best guide. It is a blessing to be part of His work as we share the messages He gives us too. May the Lord bless you and your family.
Well done!! You are so right that we are stronger when we are united in the body of the church, with Christ as our head. As you say, “Satan is stalking the world. He looks for the weak and vulnerable. And he loves to separate us from other believers, so we feel alone. But those Christians who are part of a church have a better chance of standing together against the enemy’s attacks. We are stronger together.” Thank you for this!
We are stronger together. This trip really reinforced that message for me. Sometimes, that seems to get lost in all the activities of the church. We are the army of God and we must stand firm to fight. Thanks Jessica. Blessings
What an amazing adventure you had! May we strive to always stand in the light. Thanks and God bless!
Thanks Nancy. It was amazing. God is good. Blessings
What a wonderful trip this must have been. And what relevant illustrations you drew from the experience. Yes, the Christian walk is not for Lone Rangers. We need each other!
It was an amazing blessing. God is so good to teach us lessons to help in our faith. Thanks Ava. Blessings
What an amazing journey! Thank you for sharing God’s love with everyone there and here.
Thanks Melissa. God is good all the time. Blessings
Such great analogies here. The strength we gain from others in the herd — our Christian brothers and sisters — help and encourage us to continue to serve the Lord, to run the race, to stay near to God.
Amen Melinda. We need each other to strengthen us. Thanks and blessings
Wonderful post, Yvonne. I love the new parable.
Thanks Craig. Blessings
Great insight you’ve shared from your trip. God speaks wherever we are. Your Modern Parables remind me of the importance of staying with the herd. God protects but we do have an enemy waiting and watching. Blessings, dear friend.
Thanks so much Carla. It is important to remain in God’s herd. Blessings
What a blessing this must be for you and the people of Kenya. Such a beautiful message and an applicable parable. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thanks Katherine. God gives us such amazing gifts through nature. He has blessed us immeasurably. Blessings
Loved this!
Thank you very much. Blessings
What an incredible adventure. I love when God reveals things to us through His creation. Thank you for sharing this with us
It was God and God was so good. Thanks Jennifer. Blessings
Yvonne, what a wonderful and powerful parable from your safari experience. This is such great spiritual insight, especially about the enemy prowling and seeking us out to devour us. May we constantly remain aware of his tactics.
We do need to stay aware of the enemy as we put on the armor of God daily. Thanks Karen. Blessings
Awesome insight, Yvonne, and an awesome opportunity. Thanks for sharing with us.
Thanks Barbara