Friday, May 9, 2025  

Today's Scripture
1 Peter 5:1–14

Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it — not for sordid gain but eagerly. Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock. And when the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away. In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for

“God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

Through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, I have written this short letter to encourage you and to testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. Your sister church in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings; and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Peace to all of you who are in Christ. (NRSV)

Reflection

Often when we hear of being a good steward one thinks of the possessions with which God has blessed us. This practice of good stewardship not only applies to material things but also to relationships.

In these verses Apostle Peter reminds the elders to shepherd God’s flock with humility, willingness, and a sense of responsibility. Likewise, all believers are to be respectful, faithful, and wise in their interactions with others. All of these are characteristics of being good stewards.

There are people that are placed in our lives that we are to be “good shepherds” over as Peter expresses in this passage. The flock he speaks of could be family members, friends, coworkers, fellow sisters and brothers in Christ, etc. Whatever our role in the relationships (parent/child, peer, caregiver, etc.) we are to be mindful that these people in our lives are important, and we are to faithfully look after the people God has placed in our care.

Prayer
Lord, we thank you for the many blessings you have bestowed upon us, including the people you have placed in our “flock.” We pray for your guidance in being good stewards of not only the material things you give us but also the people you have purposely integrated into our lives to spiritually watch over. Thank you for using us as your vessels of love to reach one another and to remind us that you are with us always. Amen.

Written by Michelle Epps, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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