1 Peter 5:1-5 In case you ever wondered...what does the pastor do? This is one of the passages in the Bible that describes the work of the pastor/elder. I also refer to Ezekiel 34:1-6 to challenge myself in the role of shepherd. These verses are a job description rather than a qualification. A shepherd leads, feeds (Psalm 23), and watches over (suggests awareness, Ezekiel 34 helps me understand this). He concerns himself with the welfare of the flock seeking the best for each one. On a second note, the flock is not mine, but God's. Technically the pastor is an under shepherd assigned with the care of a portion of the Chief Shepherd's flock. I have responsibility to care for it in accordance with his wishes. That brings awareness (4) to the fact that at some point the chief shepherd will appear, anticipating to receive a healthy flock. Another term tied with the pastor/shepherd is overseer. The overseer 'watches over' seeking to ensure the anticipated goal. Achieving the goal is in part the result of the overseer's attitude- serving willingly, eagerly, and not simply as a guy with a big stick, but gently, alongside of. I enjoy the role of the pastor/shepherd!
Pastor Paul
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