For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.  …I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.
Ezekiel 34, 11. 16

God closely watches us and notices that many of His sheep cannot find sufficient pasture. They are hungry to hear the word of God. Many do not find resting places at quiet waters where they could find peace and where their souls could come to rest. Many Christians live their spiritual lives in weak churches which do not give sufficient strength to live in power.
God does not want that anymore! He himself has sent His High Priest, who is the Supreme Shepherd of our souls.
It is not the educated theologians but the men called by God who should be our shepherds. The flock of God has been mistreated by many bad shepherds. Some leaders like to stand in the pulpit on Sunday mornings to show how wise they are. They are proud of their knowledge and eloquence. Some are misusing their position to have a financially safe life.  They do not take care of their community; instead, they just want to be left alone. There are some who even collect money to be able to enjoy a nice life by themselves. Avarice has always been one of the great enemies of God in His kingdom.
Jesus, the High Priest, is calling His shepherds who are according to His own Heart. He gives shepherds, teachers, evangelists, prophets, and apostles. He confirmed their calling by giving them authority. They are the true shepherds who take care of their flock as Jesus did.
We do not want to be deceived any longer, but will look for shepherds who are according to God’s heart. We want to have rich pastures, living water, and a place to rest. We are spiritual human beings who need spiritual food and who are in need of leaders truly filled with the Holy Spirit. We cannot accept leaders as authorities who do not preach in the power of the Holy Spirit. They may be managers of the church, but definitely not spiritual authorities. God cannot confirm such unspiritual leadership.
We Christians need a home, a community, the family of the children of God, where Jesus reigns. Then we will flourish; we will be heroes right where we live. Yes, God wants to give us plenty of food and good, rich pastures so that we can live humbly, bravely, joyfully and cheerfully.

Thank You, Jesus, You care for me! Even in times of drought You feed me. But You also want that I would have abundant supplies. You are my Shepherd – thank you for leading me to the place where I will find rich pastures, living water and a joyful community.

Bible reading today – Titus 1: 1-16