When you leave your kids with a babysitter, there is one thought in the back of your mind that is hard to shake, even on the most romantic of date-nights: What will this baby sitter do if there’s an emergency?
Of course, you’ve vetted this person. You know them and they know you. Often times, they are a close family friend and you hope that in that scenario they will do their best to protect your kids! But at the end of the day, that babysitter is not you. And you would risk your entire life to protect your kiddos.
This is not a knock against babysitters, I actually have met some of the most kind, loving, caring babysitters that have poured into my kids! But as a parent, you know that no one protects and loves your kids as fiercely as you.
This is what came to mind when Pastor Jason talked about a “hireling” who watches over the sheep. The hireling is just not quite as invested as the Shepherd — they won’t face danger or risk their life in the same way. They won’t spring into action during an emergency at the same level as a shepherd would, because shepherds are invested, just like us parents, so the level of care runs deep.
I was feeling convicted about how this translates into my own care of the “sheep” of God’s family. How do I risk my life or reputation or step into danger for them? Honestly, I am more quick to run and hide for safety in dangerous or scary situations. It’s actually a tough reality to step into leadership in this way.
In our group discussion questions for the week, covering John 10:11-42, this one really stood out to me:
What is the difference between us being a shepherd or a hireling in different areas of our lives (work, family, church, friendships)?
One of the major differences is simply the level of care you show in your relationships. Like at work — there are undoubtedly people who need “shepherding” and it really takes intentional action to stop and have a conversation with them. We need to see them (like truly see them), and maybe even pray right then and there for them.
Or with family, it takes knowing what is going on with spouse, kids, parents, or anyone who is in your circle. Truly asking them “how” they are, and not just “what’s next on the schedule?”
In my church family, I am always surprised at the depth of the conversations I have on a regular Sunday or Wednesday service. People are struggling with real things, and they need someone to talk to — and not just to talk…but to be shepherded.
I also thought about what it means to be truly cared for by my Shepherd. His approach with me has always been tenderness, and I am so thankful for that. There is tenderness, but there is also a higher calling that happens. He knows I am a sheep, but He also knows that I’m capable of so much more than I even know because I have Him at my side. It’s actually very freeing to have a Heavenly Father that believes in you and your capability to walk in faith.
We can also show these two things to the sheep around us: tenderness and belief. These two attributes are extremely effective for a leader, and a shepherd. God will help you lead others. You are not in this on your own. Remember that sometimes people just need a listening ear, as well as a person who truly believes in their ability to follow Christ. We can champion each other in this way.
Let’s be like Peter and go “...feed my sheep.” (John 21:17-NKJV).
Of course, you’ve vetted this person. You know them and they know you. Often times, they are a close family friend and you hope that in that scenario they will do their best to protect your kids! But at the end of the day, that babysitter is not you. And you would risk your entire life to protect your kiddos.
This is not a knock against babysitters, I actually have met some of the most kind, loving, caring babysitters that have poured into my kids! But as a parent, you know that no one protects and loves your kids as fiercely as you.
This is what came to mind when Pastor Jason talked about a “hireling” who watches over the sheep. The hireling is just not quite as invested as the Shepherd — they won’t face danger or risk their life in the same way. They won’t spring into action during an emergency at the same level as a shepherd would, because shepherds are invested, just like us parents, so the level of care runs deep.
I was feeling convicted about how this translates into my own care of the “sheep” of God’s family. How do I risk my life or reputation or step into danger for them? Honestly, I am more quick to run and hide for safety in dangerous or scary situations. It’s actually a tough reality to step into leadership in this way.
In our group discussion questions for the week, covering John 10:11-42, this one really stood out to me:
What is the difference between us being a shepherd or a hireling in different areas of our lives (work, family, church, friendships)?
One of the major differences is simply the level of care you show in your relationships. Like at work — there are undoubtedly people who need “shepherding” and it really takes intentional action to stop and have a conversation with them. We need to see them (like truly see them), and maybe even pray right then and there for them.
Or with family, it takes knowing what is going on with spouse, kids, parents, or anyone who is in your circle. Truly asking them “how” they are, and not just “what’s next on the schedule?”
In my church family, I am always surprised at the depth of the conversations I have on a regular Sunday or Wednesday service. People are struggling with real things, and they need someone to talk to — and not just to talk…but to be shepherded.
I also thought about what it means to be truly cared for by my Shepherd. His approach with me has always been tenderness, and I am so thankful for that. There is tenderness, but there is also a higher calling that happens. He knows I am a sheep, but He also knows that I’m capable of so much more than I even know because I have Him at my side. It’s actually very freeing to have a Heavenly Father that believes in you and your capability to walk in faith.
We can also show these two things to the sheep around us: tenderness and belief. These two attributes are extremely effective for a leader, and a shepherd. God will help you lead others. You are not in this on your own. Remember that sometimes people just need a listening ear, as well as a person who truly believes in their ability to follow Christ. We can champion each other in this way.
Let’s be like Peter and go “...feed my sheep.” (John 21:17-NKJV).
Erika Pizzo
Erika is an author of various books on the topics of faith, mental health, and victory in Christ. Erika lives with her husband, daughter, son, and their fluffy poodle in sunny Southern California. Her two favorite things are a visit to the beach and a chai latte in hand.