Becoming a Good Shepherd: Part III

The qualities of a good shepherd in the Bible are similar to six qualities Jim Collins identified as Level 5 Leaders in his book, “Good to Great.” The third quality is to take responsibility.

One of my favorite TV series is Blue Bloods. In many episodes, one of the New York Police Commissioner’s police officers will get into trouble with the press.

Even though the police commissioner’s staff may advise him to distance himself from the situation, Frank usually accepts responsibility for his cops, even when it potentially causes him political fallout.

In John 10:11 Jesus says, ““I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”

The following verse speaks of the hired hand who does not truly care for the sheep and abandons them when the wolf comes. The hired hand does not know the sheep and does not love them. The good shepherd, however, would sacrifice himself for his flock. Choosing to be a leader means choosing to be forever putting the flock before yourself.

A good shepherd takes responsibility for his staff’s mistakes even when it comes with a personal cost, because the wellbeing of his flock is more important than himself.

Questions for Reflection

• When has a leader sacrificed for you? How did it affect your relationship? What was the result of their sacrifice?
• Do you want to be a leader? What will be necessary for you to give up for your team? What are you willing to give up for the people you lead?