There was a large gathering of devotees, as the guru gave his lecture. It is believed that he had healed the sick, raised the dead, and did miracles. He does not dress traditionally but like others with jeans pants and t-shirts. On that tragic day, he left the venue with bodyguards in his car. As he left, people rushed to gather the dust that was stamped by his feet and car. There was a stampede and over a hundred were left dead. The injured in the hospital were expecting him to come and heal them, while others lost faith in him. However, the guru did not make any appearance and his whereabouts were not known. Peter exhorts leaders to be like shepherds. (I Peter 5:1-4)
Exercising oversight: Peter exhorted the elders to exercise their mandate as shepherds by showing love, feeding, guiding, protecting, cleaning, and comforting the sheep. (John 21:15-17) The term also means overseer, which means watch over, manager, or supervise. (Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:1-2; Titus 1:7) This mission is not a job, but a willing service. This service is the expression of love for God and the people of God. They are not paid mercenaries but are called soldiers in His Kingdom.
Eager: The elders ought to have the heart of the Good Shepherd, who lays down life and genuinely cares for the sheep. (John 10:11-14) The purpose is not to become prosperous, popular, and powerful. Peter states that it is not for worldly gain or mammon. Only the love of God is the motivation, as Paul states. (II Corinthians 5:14)
Examples: The Lord stepped down from His throne, set aside all His glory, and became human. Ministry is to step down and identify with the sheep. It is not being Lords: dominating, dictating, and directing; but serving.
Entrusted: The flock is entrusted to be cared for by the elders.
Enduring crown: The Lord Jesus Christ is the Chief, Good, and Great Shepherd. When he appears, the faithful shepherds would be awarded an Enduring crown.
Am I a Godly shepherd as Peter envisioned?