Jesus is the Shepherd King and Christians have the reassuring presence in their lives. Flocks under the Good Shepherd can be restful and lie down, contented and and secure with a flourishing productive life, provided with refreshments and well-being. He restores the spirit, soul and body. He leads on paths of safety in Him, to stay right with God, to bring honour His Name. He escorts personally His sheep through crisis with strength and authority as symbolized by the rod.
Shepherds use rods for counting, guiding, protecting and rescueing their sheep.
The staff symbolizes support and comfort. The Shepherd King has infinite resources and receives His people as guests and takes them under His protection, treated as loyal bonded friends as well as honoured guests. The blessings are promised in the New Covenant of Grace procured through Christ , that God offers, along with his presence. The Lord God is our shepherd, He feeds us, He leads us, He keeps us from thirsting, He is our companion and friend. He protects and He cares.