Jeremiah 23:1-6

“I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them, and they shall not fear any longer, or be dismayed, nor shall any be missing, says the Lord.” vs. 4

Jeremiah believed that the kings of Israel and Judah had been hopelessly corrupt and that their malfeasance had resulted in the destruction and the scattering of the population. He looked forward to new kings who would bring back the exiles and execute justice and righteousness among them. He obviously believed that strong and faithful leaders were essential to the well-being of any group of people…and we would have to agree. After all, we’ve spent the better part of the last two years, and billions of dollars, trying to find such leaders for our country…and we still don’t know what kind of shepherds they will be. Will they guide us with wisdom and compassion…or will they be more interested in fleecing us? What a blessing it is when leaders on any level offer their followers green pastures and still waters. It’s especially what we want from our pastors and bishops, from all who lead in our communities of faith. The wildernesses of our world can be scary and foreboding places, and our journeys fraught with danger. It’s so easy to wander and go astray. Thank God for shepherds who have learned their craft from the Good Shepherd and who are willing even to lay down their lives for their sheep.

Thought for the Day: Who do I look to as my earthly shepherd?