This came to me as a “download” as I slept on the night of December 13, 2017.
Providing life for the flock: Healthy sheep produce healthy sheep which calls for the stewardship and watchful eye of the shepherd. Finding and leading to green pastures, to graze on and lie down on, are paramount maxims in the heart of the shepherd and critical for the vitality of the flock.
Protection from the wolf: The wolf is a predator by nature always looking for weak or wandering sheep. The wolf operates with cunning and without conscience. Therefore the shepherd must be vigilant (watchful) and committed to the life and protection of the sheep, above and beyond his own safety and convenience.
True shepherds are leaders…but a “leader” is not necessarily a “shepherd”. Sheep really do need a shepherd. In the church we often confuse the two concepts mostly as a result of “cultural” influences. The culture emphasizes leadership but seldom mentions “shepherding”. Thus Christlikeness, The Great Shepherd—the Good Shepherd, is minimized in our midst and “obtaining objectives” gains priority over “building loving relationships”.
“Peter, do you love me?” Jesus
Barney Barnes, Warrior Spirit Ministries, 12-15-17