Scripture:  1 Peter 5:1-4

1So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Observations:

Peter speaks to the “elders” as an elder, as a witness to the sufferings of Jesus Christ, and as a participant in the glory that is going to be revealed.

Shepherd the flock of God

exercising oversight willingly;

not under compulsion.

not for shameful gain, but eagerly.

not domineering, but as an example.

When Jesus the chief Shepherd appears, you will be rewarded. 

Application:

I have had the joy of serving in leadership in Jesus’ church for the past 27 years.  As under-shepherds to Jesus, leaders of His church must be able to check their motives.  Leading out of neediness produces toxic leadership.  The church is not meant to bear the weight of my soul.  So I must keep going to Jesus with my heart and life and let him heal me.  His Spirit sources willing labour, circumspect contentment, and humble submission.  Persistent service for the advancement of His people requires the long-view and the willingness to let leading be about Jesus and not about me.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the grace to call Jesus, Lord, and for the grace to serve to your church.  Strengthen the men and women who are serving your church today here in Vancouver.  May your church be shaped by the Gospel of Jesus that they may pour their lives out for His glory.  AMEN.