Day 36/40 The Biblical Image of the Shepherd: Leadership and Care in Scripture

Shepherds as Role Models: Jesus, David, and Moses in the Bible

The role of the shepherd is a powerful and inspiring image of leadership and care. A shepherd lives selflessly , offers protection , and leads by example – just like Jesus Christ , King David , and Moses in the Bible.

Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” ( John 10:11-18 ). He knows each sheep by name and leads them safely, with love and devotion.

In Psalm 23, David describes the security that God bestows as a shepherd:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters.”

Moses is portrayed as the shepherd of Israel, leading the people through the desert ( Exodus ). His perseverance and care serve as a model for responsible leadership.

The importance of education and patience

The lives of Moses and King David illustrate the importance of a long and varied preparation period for true leadership roles. Moses first received comprehensive training in the Egyptian palace before spending 40 years tending sheep, learning patience, care, and humility. Only after this extended period was he called to lead Israel. David, too, began as a simple shepherd, was anointed by Samuel, and eventually called to Saul's royal house, where he learned from Saul and grew. Both demonstrate that true leadership often emerges from a period of learning, waiting, and serving—and that God prepares people in many ways before entrusting them with great responsibility.

My personal journey: God's guidance in my life

God first trained me as a teacher and then led me through a theological seminary and further Bible studies. He commissioned me to write down and share my experiences in the book " God Loves You !" and in the blog messages of faith . Furthermore, the Lord sent me to the local food bank, where I learned how to rescue food and distribute it to less fortunate people.

What makes a good shepherd

In short, a good shepherd exhibits the following qualities: He boldly goes ahead, cares and provides with love, offers protection, knows each sheep personally, is willing to give his life for the flock ( John 10:11-18 ) and brings a long period of training as well as a lot of patience.

The shepherd taking care of one of his lambs

Sheep as a Symbol for Believers: Spiritual Guidance and Protection

Sheep represent believers: they are vulnerable and need a shepherd who lovingly accompanies them and gives them security. In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus emphasizes the search for the individual and the joy of their return ( Luke 15:4-7 ): “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.” Micah 5:1-3 prophesies the coming shepherd who will tend and save Israel like a shepherd. Jesus Christ gave his life on the cross of Golgotha. As the Good Shepherd, he did everything to find the lost sheep of Israel. But soon he will come to find and save even the last sheep. After that, he will begin his reign as King of Peace on earth.

A critical look at secular leadership

Finally, it is worthwhile to take a critical look at the rulers of this world: all too often , the pursuit of power, control, and self-interest take center stage, while selfless care, patience, and genuine responsibility are lacking. The biblical image of the shepherd challenges us to rethink leadership—not as domination, but as service to humanity. It invites us to orient ourselves toward Jesus Christ and to act according to his example in all areas of life, so that communities may arise in which everyone feels accepted and protected.

An invitation to pastoral care

I invite you to be inspired and encouraged by this blog, as well as by the Bible passages and role models mentioned.

To allow yourself to become a shepherd – for your family, your community, or your surroundings. True leadership begins with love, trust, and the courage to stand up for others.

Outlook: My calling as a shepherdess

I eagerly await my ordination as a Mother of Faith and Shepherdess by our Lord and God, and the opportunity to serve in His name. Anyone else expecting a similar assignment is welcome to contact me via email.

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