THE STORY OF JESUS: John 10:11-21
“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
As a leader in a church, I often focus on different aspects of leadership.
Casting vision, mobilizing believers, setting S.M.A.R.T. goals for success.
Providing inspirational, helpful leadership through challenging situations.
But Jesus reminds me of another important aspect of a good leader (shepherd).
Jesus here refers to Ezekiel’s prophecies, about leaders who look out for themselves.
“Woe to you shepherds of Israel who only take care of yourselves!” (Ezekiel 34:2)
Self-serving leaders who look out primarily for their own interests.
But Ezekiel also promises that one day God Himself will come for His sheep.
“I will search for the lost and bring back the strays.
I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak.” (Ezekiel 34:15)
I believe that Jesus is the one Ezekiel is talking about.
Jesus is a good shepherd, the kind of leader our world needs.
Not only do I look to Him as my Leader (Lord), I want to be a good leader like Him!
As a shepherd (leader, teacher, parent, manager, boss, etc.) who is your role model?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see that the way I ‘lead’ others matters. It is bad leadership at all levels that ruins our world, we need Your good leadership to save it. Help me to seek AND follow Your leadership.