“Tend the flock of God in your midst,
overseeing not by constraint but willingly,
as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly.
Do not lord it over those assigned to you,
but be examples to the flock.”
via USCCB | NAB – February 22, 2011.
At first look we may think that this applies to the priests, ministers and bishops of our churches only. But let’s take a closer look. Who has God put in my life to care for? All those that God has put me in community with…my children, my spouse, my family, my friends come to mind right away. Sometimes He puts us in roles of direct leadership…such as that of parent, employer or director of a community. Other times we are to work side by side in partnership with others…our spouses, neighbors, friends, co-workers. Other times we are to be in submissive roles…employee, novice etc. None are to be more or less then any other, just different ways to serve each other and the Lord. We are to do it out of great love for each other…not an ‘I have to’ …but an “I am priviledged to…and I can’t wait.” Why do I do the things I do for my husband and children? Because I’m so in love with them it takes my breath away, it is not a chore to spend time with them and love on them. The same should be true of my relationship with the Lord and doing whatever He has called me to…including loving those around me.
So are you still wondering who your “flock” is…take a look at your “contact list” on your smart phone (or address book will do…lol).