Firstly I want to know my Shepherd more. I am hopeless when it comes to gardening and I know that my "dig everything up just in case it's a weed" approach is not the best one to adopt. I have, however, benefitted greatly over the years from those who not only know what they are doing when it comes to 'all things green' but also, as a result, are able to bring spiritual insights into the agricultural passages found in the Scriptures. As I go through Keller's book, I hope that his insights as a Shepherd will help me to understand, and appreciate more, the character, love and ministry of my Shepherd.
Secondly, I am aware that because I am the Minister of a Church then I carry the responsibility of being a spiritual "shepherd" to others. When Peter wrote to the Church he said to the elders
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. (1 Peter 5:2-4)
As I go through this book, therefore, I want to not only understand what it means to be a godly sheep, following my Shepherd, but also to understand ways in which I can become a better example, and servant, towards those who God has called me to care for in the Church and in my family. As I start the journey the words of an old song come to mind, which I may find myself singing as I walk:
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Knowing You;
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Knowing You.
I Want To Know You More, I Want To Know You More.
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Knowing You.
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Loving You;
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Loving You.
I Want To Love You More, I Want To Love You More.
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Loving You.
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Serving You;
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Serving You.
I Want To Serve You More, I Want To Serve You More.
The Greatest Thing In All My Life Is Serving You.
I struggle that only one thing can be the greatest in my life but, I guess we must give Mark poetic licence and agree that knowing, loving and serving God should take the first place in my life.
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