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1 And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: 2 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. 3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care but lead them by your own good example. 4 And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor. 5 In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

 

Oh, how I loved reading these verses. It brought back such wonderful memories…We lived with my grandparents, and they owned a grocery store across the street from the Catholic Church and school we attended in our elementary years. Several evenings a month we hosted the priests for dinner. I sat in awe watching them blessing the meal and our home. I remember my grandpa explaining their position in the church after they had gone. As many of us learned at an early age…” Respect your elders,” no matter to what it was related. Honestly, I was a bit afraid of them! Fast forward to bringing my young children to Living Lord 30+ years ago. They felt welcomed and cared for as children of God! Exactly how Peter described the church leadership to present in these verses! They were eager to learn and happy to be in church! The pastors had a heart for God and led by example, shepherding and overseeing their flock.

The last line in verse 5 is one of utmost importance and repeated in James 4: 6, and Proverbs 3: 34. This is a hard lesson. I have heard it said to “give up the right to be right!” Which side do you want to be on…proud or humble…they are enemies. True humility is being other-centered, not self-centered. Being humble is showing grace, favor, and love, Christ-like…

Heavenly Father, thank you for Your faithful shepherds of Living Lord Lutheran Church. Pour out Your grace over our church. Prepare us to walk in humility and love and keep us in Your peace. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Ann Groomes

anngroomes25@gmail.com

 

Prayer Concern - For those bound in pride…