The Bible uses the term "shepherd" for different kinds of Godly leaders. Only One, however, is the quintessential good Shepherd (Psalm 23:1-6; John 10:11-18). We follow this Shepherd because he values us above his own life — "The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." Jesus shows us that the heart of godly leadership is loving sacrifice, not a status-seeking privilege, and it is caring service, not a selfish attention-seeking position (1 Peter 5:1-4). As God's sheep, we are saved because Jesus IS our Good Shepherd who laid down his life to us to bring us home safely to God!

Holy and sacrificial Father, I am humbled to silence by your plan to have Jesus be Lord and Lamb, Shepherd and Sacrifice. Thank you for giving me life through his death. Thank you for showing me leadership through his example. I offer you my undying thanks in Jesus' name. Amen.