Joe Shumock

The Shepherd's Crook Joe Shumock

A shepherd boy follows a strange star to the small village of Bethlehem. There he finds a manger and a very special infant. Kings and Magi arrive bringing gifts to the child who some are calling the Messiah. Wanting to leave something too, Alon has only one possession to give, a treasured shepherd's crook.

Beside the other's, Alon is ashamed of his meager offering. A man of wealth helps the boy understand that in God's eyes his gift is worth more than all the others because Alon has given all he possessed.

Thirty-three years later and now an old shepherd, Alon meets a teacher who brings a message of forgiveness and caring for others. This man helps the old shepherd recognize the importance of forgiveness in his own life.

On parting, the stranger tells Alon his days of teaching are near an end. With a knowing eye, the teacher passes his staff to the old shepherd.

Could it be the one Alon gave to the infant when he followed the star?