1 Peter 5:2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords 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 does not fade away.

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As parents, we are to shepherd the flock of God which is among us, our children who have been entrusted to us.

“Shepherd” in Greek means to tend, nourish, and supply the requisite for their souls’ need (not just the physical needs, but the needs of their soul.)

Serving as overseers – which means to look carefully upon, look after, inspect, and care for.

We are to do this willingly with cheerful readiness.

Not trying to bring them under our power and hold them in subjection…

But in being an example of Christ for them that they can emulate.

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When I read that verse, I think of this picture of Jesus, laying down His life. Tending His flock and bringing them into a safe space where they are nourished and protected from predators.

There’s one entrance and He has placed Himself there, as a gate. Nothing will get to His flock that doesn’t first pass over Him.

That’s such a beautiful picture of shepherding love.

May we be this to our children, the flock entrusted to our care.