Shepherd God's Flock, 1 Peter 5:2

Text
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money but eager to serve” (1 Pt 5:2, NIV).

Insight
In the Gospel of John, three times Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” Each time Peter responds, “Yes, Lord, you know I love you.” And Jesus replies, “Then take care of (feed) my sheep.” It is out of this conversation with Christ, that Peter now passes on this teaching saying, “Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you” (1 Peter 5:2, NLT).
Whom has God entrusted to you? Perhaps it is your spouse, children, extended family, co-workers, employees, clients, neighbors or the stranger at the gas station. Each of us has a sphere of influence through which God desires us to extend care. We shepherd others as we “lead them by your own good example” (5:3) and do good to them. We are to watch over them as an act of service to God.
Speaking through the prophet Ezekiel, God helps us understand the proper role of the shepherd leader. This man is to “take are of the weak” (Ez 34:4). He is to “tend to the sick” and go “looking for those who have wandered away and are lost.” The shepherd feeds the flock and provides good pasture land where they can lie down (provides and environment of wholeness and peace). Likewise, the elder is to “rescue them form all the places where they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day” (34:12). Shepherd leaders lead from a posture of humility and gentleness.
“And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor” (1 Peter 5:4, NLT).

Prayer
Father, I will care for those you have entrusted to me. I will take care of the weak, tend the sick and go looking for those who have wandered away. I will lead them by my good example and in gentleness and humility. Yes, Lord, I love you and will care for your sheep. In Jesus name, AMEN.