There are times when being a pastor and teacher of God’s Word is terrifying.
I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and He shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which He will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’
Jeremiah 23:5b-6
Scripture tells us that those who teach are held to a higher standard.
Today’s Scripture gives us an indication of consequences for those shepherds who are not faithful in what the Lord has called them to do and how they are serving those to whom the Lord has entrusted to them.
As a Christian I say, “right on!” As a pastor I have that gnawing, “am I being faithful? Am I doing enough? Am I doing right?”
But it is not an option not to serve when He Calls. The solution is not to sacrifice family or self in service to others.
The Call does not change: preach the Word. Preach Jesus. Serve others. Love God and people.
Will we (I) do that perfectly?
Absolutely not!
But here’s the thing: even though I will never be perfect in my Calling, I know the One who is, and in pointing people to Him, I serve Him and others.
I am not perfect in my shepherding, but I can point people to the good, perfect Shepherd, Jesus. He is the One to follow. He is the perfect One. He is the righteous One!
“The LORD is our righteousness!”
God has provided the One that suffered, died, rose, and ascended. He provided the One that loves His sheep perfectly and serves them faithfully. He provided what was lacking in the imperfect under-shepherds.
If I follow the Righteous One and lead others to as well, I will be faithful. If I love and serve others because I am being faithful to what He has called me to do, others will as well.
So hear me clearly and plainly: I am not a perfect under-shephers, but He is the perfect Shepherd. I am not always faithful, but He is the One in whom you should have perfect faith. I will continue to fail in my service to you, but the LORD, the righteous One will never fail you.
Follow Him. Put your faith in Him. Look to Him.
The LORD Jesus is your righteousness.
In everything.
Always.
“Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being our righteous, faithful, loving, saving Shepherd. Let us always look to and follow You.”
Scriptures
- Jeremiah 23:1-6
