Episode notes
Shepherd and Overseer
Lord Jesus, you are exalted to the highest place. Your name is above every other name – every ruler and principality and power, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.
So today we pray in the name of Jesus—that every knee would bow and every tongue confess that you are Lord. Not because we have the strength to make it happen, but because you do. Not because our plans are sufficient, but because your power is limitless.
Read: Psalm 71:7–8
Pause and pray
In the verses leading up to today’s passage, the Apostle Peter has been urging his readers to think about the way they live, to align their behaviour and attitudes with that of Jesus…
Read: 1 Peter 2:21–25
I resonate deeply with the picture of Jesus as a shepherd who guides and protects me, because I know how badly I need both! I need his guidance because I am easily confused; I live in a world that is complex, troubling and frequently overwhelming. I need the protection and the boundaries he offers because I know how easily I can be led astray. In John 10, Jesus says that “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). It is only by actively choosing to listen to my shepherd that I receive the guidance and leading I need.
Lord Jesus, shepherd and overseer of my soul, guide and protect me. As I choose to listen for your leading, help me to hear your voice.
Pause and pray
Lord Jesus, I pray for those you’ve placed in positions of leadership within the Church. Help them to emulate you as they shepherd and oversee the people in their care, serving with the same humility and selflessness that you yourself led with.
Pause and pray
As I return to the passage, I look out for a particular word or phrase that the Holy Spirit seems to be highlighting to me today…
Read again: 1 Peter 2:21–25 (NIVUK)
I take a moment to reflect on any word or phrase that the Holy Spirit is highlighting for me.
Pause and pray
I am struck that Jesus expects me to follow his example, and so become an example to others. The way I behave, and the attitude with which I engage with the world, are not private matters between me and God.
I am supposed to deliberately live my life in Jesus’ footsteps – actively shepherding both believers and unbelievers away from going astray and towards him by my words, attitudes and actions. It’s a big responsibility and one I need to take seriously.
Lord Jesus, I invite you to do the work of guiding and shepherding my soul. Show me if there is anything in my behaviour or attitudes I need to change, so that I can better point other people to you.
Amen.