Being A Good Shepherd

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Reading: John 10:1-21

Reflection: Jesus is presented to us here not just as a shepherd, but as a good shepherd. As such, he does not come to steal, kill or destroy. Rather, he can be trusted by the sheep to do that which is good and right on their behalf. As I read this passage, it seemed to me that there are several marks of a good shepherd. First, they are present and relationally connected to the sheep. For this reason, the sheep recognize his voice and follow him because he is not a stranger. Second, the shepherd doesn't send his sheep head long into danger while following from behind. Rather, the shepherd goes out ahead of them. He leads not out of a desire to be in control but out of a desire to protect and guide. Third, the shepherd provides for the needs of the sheep. The sheep may not have all they want, but the do have all they need. He leads them out to pasture, and then brings them back to the safety of shelter in the evening. Finally, the good shepherd lays his life down for the sheep, pouring himself out to ensure their safety.

This is the kind of shepherd and leader we have in Jesus. It is also the kind of leader a dad is to be for his children, a husband for his wife, and a pastor for his church. We are to know those we lead, to pour ourselves out in order to provide for them and protect them. As we do this, we embody the nature and character of Jesus for those that have been entrusted to us. May all of us who lead in any way be found to be good shepherds.