Shepherding as a Paradigm for the Eschaton

[JRogersCooper]

“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of man comes.” --Matthew 25:13

The totality of prophetic literature in the Old Testament points in some way to a future where God is realized, recognized and/or revered for who God is. As such, prophetic literature takes on an eschatological quality. This causes me to wonder about the connection of shepherding motifs that are found in prophetic books that speak to the Shepherd’s ushering in the End Times even as the Shepherd leads, loves, cares for and protects His sheep. What is the nature of the under-shepherd’s participation in and guiding the Eschaton?
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Jennifer Rogers-Cooper is a Chaplain in the US Army. She is currently pursuing a DMin from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.