Today's readings are Deuteronomy 6.10-25 and Matthew 9.18-38.
Jesus looks at the people. They are weary and harrassed. They are like sheep without a shepherd. When we consider the pastoral office, it's important to consider that the pastor serves as our Lord's shepherd for the sheep of his flock. The shepherd acts on the behalf of the master. He acts to guard and nurture the flock. He protects them from their weariness. He sustains them when they are weary, moving them to safety and nourishment. And he makes sure they are nourished with all they need.
How many of our pastors today do not do the work of a shepherd, but do the work of an administrator, a coach, even a sheep that wants its flock to provide for it? The biblical role of a pastor is that of Christ himself, laying his life down for the good of his flock, giving them the words of life and forgiveness they need, feeding them with true food and true drink which does not perish. This is the ministry of the shepherd.
Lord, may those who are the shepherds of your flock, as well as those who are the sheep of your flock, look to you for their provision. May we all together rejoice in the life you have given, the work you have ordained for us, the gifts you have provided for the good of your people. May we all in turn show the world that you are the good shepherd, who protects your flock from being weary and harrassed.
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