A shepherd's life during Jesus's time was a simple yet demanding one. They spent their days tending to their flocks of sheep and goats, guiding them to fresh pastures and protecting them from predators like wolves and jackals. The work was often solitary and required patience, as shepherds would spend long hours under the vast sky, keeping watch over their animals which were prone to getting into trouble. They used their curved sticks, called "crooks", to direct their animals, grab them around the neck, and ward off would be predators.  

Even a future king, David, began his life as a humble shepherd. This experience shaped his character, teaching him resilience, courage, and a deep connection to nature. The life of a shepherd, though often looked down on, was essential to the society of the time, providing sustenance and wool for clothing. It was a life rooted in nature, filled with both beauty and hardship, and one that held a special place in God's heart.