The Importance of Nourishing the Flock

[mattcapps]

The nourishment and protection of the flock is one of the most powerful applications we can gleam from the shepherding metaphor. Laniak argues that ‘the good shepherd knows where to find pastures that are not only lush but safe enough for his flocks to rest in peace…it is the skilled shepherd who knows the environment well enough to provide for his animals needs with compromising their security…The wilderness is a confusing environment . Left to themselves, the sheep inevitably go astray.”

One of the most pressing challenges for any shepherd is to provide nourishment (water, food, rest) for their flocks in harsh environments, environments that withheld essential elements for life and flourishing. A good shepherd watches their flock. Eating and drinking bring nourishment. Rest is a function of being well provided for. Rest also points to a state of security that comes from the shepherd’s protective presence. The idea of provision by way of nourishment and protection is carried forward in the context of theology in pastoral ministry. Consider Jesus words to Peter in chapter 21 of the gospel of John, “feed my sheep”. And in Acts 20 Paul charges the Ephesian elders to protect the flock from those who would twist doctrine. It seems that the picture that Laniak provides is apt: “the image of a gathered flock lying down in green pastures” , imagery of satisfaction and safety. Satisfaction comes from the nourishment provided by the whole counsel of God, and safety comes from shepherds who pay careful attention to the lives and doctrine of the flock. The church is to be a community of rest, a place for the weary to refresh from the wilderness of everyday life. The call is clear for pastors to nourish the people God has placed in your care.