We all know the significance of someone’s “last words”. In the gospel of John we read Jesus’ direct, even bold, commands to Peter who was the first leader of the fledging family we now call Christians.

After establishing that their relationship is founded upon love, Jesus directs Peter to “feed My sheep” as an expression of this love. Though not always glamorous or popular, this role as a servant leader is the pre-eminent model for Jesus’ church throughout history.

The earnestness with which Jesus instructed His friend shows that this role is incredibly significant in His mind. This indicates a simple, uncomfortable principle for even the most mature of His followers - every one of Jesus’ sheep needs a shepherd! Despite the strengths within each of us, we are prone to wander and in need of a man or woman to constantly guide us back to Jesus’ path.

Not only does every sheep need a shepherd but every shepherd is also a sheep.

Despite the capacity of pastors in today’s churches, every pastor also needs a pastor. Every mature man or woman needs another man or woman to lovingly guide them to a life and a faith that nourishes them as Jesus promised it would.

So, pause for a moment and reflect on whether or not you have a shepherd in your life? If you have that sorted, then you can then start to ask God, “God, are there any sheep around me that You are calling me to shepherd?”

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John 21-15-16
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”