This devotional probably applies to me as much as anyone reading this.
I am, after all, a shepherd of God’s people.
I am a pastor.
And so, as I read the prophecy given to Ezekiel through multiple times, I kept asking myself, “Am I taking care of the flock like I’m supposed to?” I wondered aloud, “Am I strengthening the weak and encouraging the downtrodden?” I couldn’t stop thinking about whether or not I was ruling too harshly, or if I was searching for the lost sheep hard enough.
I’m not saying that this prophecy doesn’t apply to you, but it is clearly directed to the spiritual leaders of God’s people in Ezekiel’s day, and I think it’s a warning to all those who are spiritual leaders in any day and age.
I am a pastor.
And I have a huge responsibility to lead God’s people.
My prayer is that I will fulfill my responsibilities to my very best.
#1 by Jason Rogers - March 4th, 2010 at 12:40
Is it safe to say that all parents are pastors…pastors of their children, and perhaps grandchildren?
I am a pastor. I have a huge responsibility to lead the children God has granted me – whether biologically or adoptively – in righteousness and proper nurture.
But God is bigger than our screw-ups. Yes, we will be held accountable for how we do things, but the passage is very clear that God will ultimately bring justice to both “good” and “wicked” sheep. When we screw up as shepherds, it’s not the end of the world. Hopefully we quickly repent and adapt! I have not enough fingers and toes to count how many times I’ve messed up as my family’s pastor. But praise God for His Holy Spirit – how powerful He is when we actually listen to Him and obey Him.