But the Shepherd not only knows you, but wants you to know Him. I am the good shepherd. As his under shepherd, you do not know me very deeply. You might not like some of the things you might find out about me. But Jesus longs to be known.
Sheep have some knowledge of their shepherd, but only as much as sheep can know.
It is very costly for a shepherd who undertakes to care for sheep, and it is very costly for a mother caring for little children. It is not just one act of laying down one's life. A pastor or minister who serves as an under-shepherd should expect to be hurt and walked on from time to time. People easily misunderstand, ascribe motives, say harsh things. A necessary part of the task is being willing to absorb and defuse the hurt in one's own body.