Proper 11: First Reading, Jeremiah 23:1-6                                    

Jeremiah 23:1-6

As I have often pointed out in my Bible classes, the Old Testament prophets came generally with two types of messages: those of “weal” or blessing. It’s where we get our word “wealth.” Second on the docket were messages of “woe.” We all know what that means. Now, it’s one thing to pronounce a message of woe upon oneself and who would want to? But to hear a message of “woe” from the mouth of the LORD? Ugh! Our first reading this week begins, “‘Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!’ declares the LORD” (23:1).

God loves his people. I’ve had several reminders of that over the course of the past week, and then I open the text for this reading and BAM! There it is again. And God cares how those people are cared for. I am thankful for the men who have been my pastors. None perfect, no not one. But good, faithful men who love the Shepherd and desire to follow his lead. Not so the men called out in today’s reading. The  fault highlighted by God is that they destroy and scatter. I cannot imagine hearing those words from the Lord. He is watching his shepherds. And they will give an account.

But I also love the fact that our Lord does not leave his sheep in the hands of erring leaders. Our Lord, our Good Shepherd, is One who goes after His own, and provides for them with the ultimate Shepherd raised up as a “Branch” from the house of David. Stability, strength and protection. God is indeed watching His sheep. And His shepherds. And He loves and will always be available to lead all. Following guarantees safety.