I’ve worked with a lot of Christian authors and speakers over the years. Most have been delightful, and have made a positive impact. A few have been, let’s say, embarrassing.
Many of these nationally known figures started out in typical ministry roles in their local churches. Then, at some point, they chose to share their talents with a wider audience. For some, their bigger stage was a fun extracurricular activity. For others, it took over and became their full-time gig, leaving the local ministry behind.
I’m thankful for how God has worked through all of them to enrich the lives of many. But, I gotta say, today I have a special appreciation for the ministry people who have never made the big time–and have never wanted to. These are the shepherds who simply love their flock. It never occurs to them how their methods or insights or talents might play in the national spotlight. They simply want to serve and to love just where God planted them.
However, some say, “I think God wants me to share what he’s given me–to many more people beyond this place.” That may be exactly how God is calling them. We’re beckoned to put our light on a lampstand, after all.
But, as a member of the flock, I love it when my shepherds indicate that we in this little flock are enough. We’re worthy of our fully dedicated shepherds. We’re not simply stepping stones. We’re enough.
I love the humble shepherds who are content with the size of their flock. I love the shepherds who know my name. I love the shepherds who get their fulfillment from seeing the signs of personal spiritual growth in one of their lambs. I love the shepherds who spend as much time listening to their sheep as they do talking. I love the shepherds who generously share their influence with other leaders and volunteers. I love the shepherds who freely credit God for ministry successes. I love the shepherds who genuinely want to build the only brand that truly matters–Jesus.
These humble shepherds will never be nationally known household names. They’ll never make anybody’s biggest, fastest-growing, or best-selling lists. On the big ministry stages, they might be considered the least of these. But they might just be the greatest.
In my younger days, the church I attended would invite various ministers to preach. The ones that said the right words, preached the best topics got the most ‘hallelujahs’ and ‘praise the lords’ received the best remuneration. I objected and suggested the were ‘preaching to the balcony’ or to the ‘amen corner’ of the church. Didn’t go over too well, and still doesn’t. “Just sayin.”
One of your best messages ever. AMEN.
Great thoughts here Thom. I agree wholeheartedly!! Thanks.
Thanks for your encouraging words in this post. I passed it on to our local group of pastors and some of our LCMS Texas District leaders. Good responses from them as well.
I was thinking along those lines just this morning. I had read about a ministry where the leaders had space to promote themselves…where can we come, when can we minister to you, what would you like us to speak about. It was exactly the thought I had about your blog. I’m sure they minister to others, however it seemed like…”Here we are!” It minimized the one on one …tell your neighbor.
Thoughtful post. Let’s tame those egos, folks!
Good to know there are many loving shepherds who genuinely want to build the only brand that truly matters–Jesus. I hope they know the true doctrine they are teaching. Over years of seeking Truth from God, I understand most of the debated doctrines. Overall the mainline churches are teaching half truth. Jesus said, the blind leads the blind and both will perish. I hope you will seek the Truth from God to listen to critics against the mainline churches instead of taking things for granted that we are already saved by grace without the works of the law.
Beautifully penned article on “Loving Your No-Name Shepherd”! It’s a poignant reminder to appreciate those who quietly guide us. Just like the shepherd, QAF Quran Academy provides invaluable guidance on our spiritual journey. Thank you for this touching reminder of gratitude.