“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. – John 10:11
I remember having the impression that I’m a dog. A shepherd’s dog. The flock of sheep to lead belongs to the shepherd, not the dog. I don’t know if it was a divine revelation but its probably not the most flattering but ego piercing statement. I’m going to use shepherd’s dog and sheep dog interchangeably here.
The sheep dog cannot share his joys and woes with the sheep. They probably won’t understand all the barking. The shepherd expects much of the sheep dog. Stamina, obedience and tenacity in times of physical sheep hostility! When I was in New Zealand, I always had sympathy for the sheep dog. Always alone, working so hard. But I realised the sheep dog had the most favor with the shepherd. And there was a longstanding relationship, trust that the shepherd has with the dog.
I guess this applies to all leadership positions. That ultimately we will have someone to account to. Even the president of the United States accounts to God in his oath. And it is something to be very thankful for.
