the role of a pastor

Samuel was a pivotal figure in the history of Israel. Not only was he a prophet of the Lord, but he was also the man God used to anoint the first king of Israel. He confronted the people of Israel with their sin, and when they responded well he said:
And Samuel said to the people, “Do not be afraid; you have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty. For the Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name’s sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself. Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way. Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.” (1 Samuel 12:20-25 ESV)

I know that Sammy wasn’t exactly a pastor, but here’s what I see in the way that he shepherds the people he’s responsible for:
1. He pleads with them to make wise decisions. He begs them to follow the Lord, warning them against the distractions of things that can’t satisfy.
2. He intercedes for them. He goes so far as to call not praying for them a sin against the Lord.
3. He leads them in the way that they should go. He sets the course for them, calling them to fear and serve the Lord, reminding them of the great things He has done for them.

That sounds like the role of a shepherd to me. And it gives me a pretty good basis for checking my own work and walk. I can get swept up in the busy-ness of church work if I’m not careful. It’s good to have a reminder of what’s really important, and what’s at stake if I’m not on target and on task. I’m not vain enough to think that the city’s going to hell in a handbasket if I don’t pastor well. But I do believe that if I’m faithful to encourage, pray, and teach about what it looks like to follow Jesus, my town will be changed by the grace of God.

That’s what I’m asking God for…