This week’s devotions are based on Revealed Week 5 – Calling Revealed (WATCH HERE)
Jesus had big plans for Peter. After probing and restoring Peter with the question, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” he calls him to “Feed my lambs,” “Take care of my sheep,” “Feed my sheep.” Three times, Peter affirms his love and three times, Jesus gives him this direction.
Jesus first was interested in Peter’s heart, “Do you love me more than these?” the he was interested in defining Peter’s calling to discipleship. No longer is Peter to be just a follower, although following Jesus would always be primary, but he is to be one that now nurtures, guids and cares for other sheep. Jesus was Peter’s shepherd. Now Peter was to shepherd others.
Jesus’ words, “Feed my sheep,” and “Take care of my sheep,” are rich with imagery and profound meaning. Sheep are vulnerable, dependent creatures. They need a shepherd to lead them to green pastures, to protect them from predators, and to tend to their needs. Jesus is entrusting his flock to Peter, a flock that represents his followers, his church, the people he died for. This is an immense responsibility, one that requires deep love, unwavering commitment, and genuine compassion.
But this calling is not just for Peter. The Spirit of God has preserved this encounter for us to take to heart today. Every generation, Jesus calls his followers to also be shepherds. Sure some are in a more public role as a pastor, or similar task, but at the core of Christ’s calling is caring for the Christ’s sheep. This might look different for each person, but the core principle remains: to nurture and support others in their spiritual journey.
How about you? How does this calling apply to you?
Are there people in your life who need encouragement, guidance, or support? This could be a friend struggling with doubt, a family member facing a challenge, or a colleague feeling overwhelmed. Perhaps it’s a new believer who needs mentoring, a neighbor who needs a listening ear, or someone in your community who is lonely.
To be sure, Jesus is calling us to notice those around us, to see their needs, and to respond with love and compassion. However, he also seems to be focusing on those of the family of believers. “Feed my sheep” also has a strong implication of spiritual nourishment. Are you sharing your faith, offering biblical insights, or providing resources that will help others grow in their relationship with Christ? How might you do that in your home with the “flock” of your family? How might you do this at your church by helping to teach Kids Church, lead a Sunday school class, host a small group or simply walk with someone through a spiritual challenge, offering the hope of the Scripture and the comfort of the Gospel.
Feeding the sheep also involves safeguarding the flock. This means standing against false teachings, protecting others from harm, and speaking truth in love. It means being a source of wisdom and discernment, helping others to navigate the complexities of life and faith. To feed the sheep, one must continually be fed by the words of Jesus, our Good Shepherd.
Jesus knew the calling came with challenges. It requires time, energy, and vulnerability. There will be moments when we feel ill-equipped, inadequate, or even overwhelmed. But remember, Jesus doesn’t call us to this task alone. He promises his presence and his strength. “Feed my sheep,” Jesus says. Let’s answer that call with willing hearts and open hands, knowing that in serving others, we are truly serving him.
Apply: So, today, consider the sheep in your life. Who are you called to feed, and who are you called to care for? Ask the Lord for guidance, strength, and wisdom. And trust that as you respond to his call, he will equip you for the task.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for calling me to care for your sheep. Strengthen me for the task and guide me in your ways so I may take care of your sheep and lambs well. AMEN.