by Linda Veath

a passage in a Catholic bible about God being a Shepherd.

Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. ~ Jeremiah 3:15 NIV

We look to our pastors to guide our congregations corporately and individually, to guard our knowledge of the truth of God’s Word, and to lead us to nourishment through our worship and Bible study. A good shepherd knows his flock and helps them know him. He joins us in seeking God as he preaches and teaches God’s Word faithfully.

A pastor is gentle yet strong, compassionate yet faithful to the truth of God’s Word. He helps us endure hardship not only in his guidance but also in the way he faces his own hardships. His words comfort us as we lie in a hospital bed or stand at the graveside of a loved one. His prayers bring peace as we struggle with finances or a troubled marriage.

Being a shepherd isn’t the easiest job and demands much—including time apart from family. But a shepherd persists in leading us, forgiving us, and teaching us. All so that we show forth God’s holiness in our lives. A shepherd is God’s gift to us. We should support them, pray for them, and thank the Lord for them.

A good shepherd joins us in seeking God as he preaches

and teaches God’s Word faithfully.

This is a bittersweet Sunday morning for me and my church family. Our pastor of twenty years is retiring from the ministry. We celebrate the joy of his many years of service to our Lord. And we celebrate the new season he is now entering in his life, knowing that he will continue to serve the Lord even in retirement.

At the same time we shed tears because we are losing such a faithful shepherd. Truly a man after God’s own heart. One who has been with me through some of the most painful times of my life. He has truly been God’s gift and I thank the Lord for Pastor Cameron and wish him and his family Godspeed. Till we meet again …..

Blest be the tie that binds

Our hearts in Christian love;

The fellowship of kindred minds

Is like to that above.

When here our pathways part,

We suffer bitter pain;

Yet, one in Christ and one in heart,

We hope to meet again.

Well done, good and faithful servant. You will be missed.

May all of you have a shepherd after God’s own heart who is faithfully leading your church.