Eager to Serve

 "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."

— 1 Peter 5:2-4

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

As a shepherd of God's flock, this passage is very specific direction to me. But for anyone with a pastoral calling, anyone who is an elder within their church community, or anyone with the Ephesians 4:11-12 gift of shepherding, this applies to their life as well.

There is a portion of God's flock that is under my care and God has entrusted them to me. Their lives, souls, callings, discipleship, and so much more, has been given to me to steward, to lead, and to pastor. I am to do that with a watchful eye, being aware of the flock, knowing how they are doing—not just collectively, but individually. I am to watch over them not out of duty, but out of an eagerness to serve them. I am not to lord it over them, but instead be an example to the flock. When I lord over the flock, I am relying on control, manipulation, and coercion to get them to do the things I want done. When I serve the flock, I am allowing them to flourish in an environment of joy, safety, and peace.

As I watch over and serve the flock, I don't do it for recognition or accolades from them. I'm not seeking affirmation from the flock or using them to prop up my identity. I am secure in my identity in Christ and confident that when you, Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, appear, I will receive a crown of glory that will never fade. Therefore, I'm not serving this flock for credit or renown in this life. I'm content to await any recognition in the life to come.

Lord Jesus, may I be a faithful shepherd watching carefully over the flock entrusted to me, serving them, being an example to them, and allowing You to be the One who rewards me.

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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