From Ancient Pastures to the Christian Church - Backstory of the Pastoral Calling

Shepherding is more than just a job; it’s a deep-rooted tradition that carries immense significance in both agriculture and spiritual leadership. This guide will take you through the fascinating world of shepherding, illustrating its vital role in communities and its historical importance within the Christian faith.

What is Sheep Herding?

Sheep herding, or shepherding, refers to the management and care of sheep flocks. This ancient practice is not just about raising livestock; it involves ensuring the health of the animals and the sustainability of the land they graze on.

Globally, sheep herding is found in diverse locations, from the verdant hills of Wales to the arid slopes of Mongolia. A shepherd's job requires patience, skill, and a unique bond with the sheep, emphasizing traits like protection and nurturing.

Common Tasks of a Sheep Herder

The daily responsibilities of a sheep herder can vary widely depending on the environment and specific needs of the flock:

• Grazing Management: Shepherds must ensure sheep have access to quality forage. In places like New Zealand, pasture rotation can reduce overgrazing by up to 30%, promoting healthier ecosystems.

• Health Monitoring: Vigilant observation of the flock's health is crucial. Studies show that detecting illness early can reduce livestock losses by as much as 25%.

  
  

• Shearing: Not only does regular shearing maintain the sheep's comfort, but it also produces wool, which is a billion-dollar industry worldwide. In countries like Australia, sheep contribute to over 20% of the global wool supply.

  
  

• Herding: Whether on foot, horseback, or using trained dogs, effective herding ensures the sheep are safe and secure.

  
  

• Breeding: Effective breeding programs enhance the flock's genetic health and yield. For example, selective breeding practices have improved wool quality in certain breeds by as much as 15%.

  
  
  
  

Where is Shepherding Most Common in the World?

Shepherding is prevalent in various regions, including:

• Middle East: Countries like Israel hold a rich tradition of shepherding, deeply rooted in religious texts and cultural practices.

  
  

• Europe: The landscapes of Scotland and Norway are iconic for sheep herding, with millions of sheep grazing in these regions.

  
  

• Australia and New Zealand: These countries are powerhouses in the sheep industry, with millions of sheep helping shape the global wool and meat markets.

  
  
  
  

Sheepherding in Israel

In Israel, shepherding not only survives but thrives amidst historical narratives. The rugged hills are home to shepherds who tend their flocks near ancient sites. For example, the tradition is vividly illustrated in the fields of Bethlehem, linking past practices with present stories.

A shepherd leading a flock of sheep in Israel's lush hills.

Famous Shepherds in History

Although there are many shepherds we can speak of, such as Rachel, the second wife of Jacob, who became Israel, there are two main characters I want to bring to light. They bear contrast and similarity in their callings, for reasons that will be obvious to readers who know their biblical stories.

• David of Bethlehem, son of Jesse and King of Israel: Anyone who hears the word "shepherd" will immediately think of David, who began as a humble shepherd before becoming a revered king of Israel.

  
  

• Cyrus the Great: The founder of the Persian Empire tended sheep before his rise to power. Who knew?

There is a profound metaphorical connection here. This shared experience exemplifies God's unique requirement that his saviors have an innate ability to guide, protect and nurture their people, much like a shepherd tends to their flock. David and the Cyrus demonstrated remarkable leadership, wisdom and compassion, ultimately leading the nation of Israel to prosperity and renewal. What a powerful reminder of the qualities that are essential for effective leadership! Care, vigilance, and deep commitment to the well-being of those entrusted to one's care.

But... Why Do People Keep Sheep?

I've been wanting a sheep for the last year or so. They're just so visibly fluffy and cuddly! I think it would be so sweet, to own one as a pet, which apparently is one of the common reasons for keeping sheep. Overall, the main reasons to keep sheep involve:

• Wool Production: With sheep providing a critical source of wool, the industry supports countless jobs and communities.

  
  

• Meat Source: Lamb and mutton are integral to cuisines globally, with countries like New Zealand exporting millions of kilograms each year.

  
  

• Companionship and Agriculture: Beyond practical uses, in some cultures, sheep serve as companions and help maintain land fertility through grazing.

  
  
  
  

The Connection Between Pastors and Shepherds

As previously discussed, Christ-based faith traditions draw parallels between pastors and shepherds due to their roles in guiding and nurturing communities. In Messianic teachings, Yeshua (Jesus) frequently referred to His followers as sheep, emphasizing the importance of guidance and care in spiritual leadership.

What Defines a Good Pastor as a Shepherd?

A good pastor exhibits virtues aligned with the shepherding ideal:

• Compassion: Genuine care and understanding of the congregation's needs are essential traits of a true shepherd.

  
  

• Knowledge: A well-informed pastor offers wisdom and teaches righteousness, helping followers navigate their spiritual journeys, as shepherds help their sheep find their way.

  
  

• Selflessness: Prioritizing the well-being of their congregants over personal gain is a hallmark of effective pastoral leadership, as well as of a shepherd.

  
  
  
  

The Nation of Sheep and Goats

This biblical concept underlines the distinction between believers and non-believers based on faith. Yeshua's parable of the sheep and goats illustrates personal accountability and highlights the importance of adhering to God’s word. The anticipation of this sorting at the end times serves as a reminder for believers to stay faithful and committed to their calling.

In the biblical parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46), Jesus teaches about the importance of compassion, kindness, and serving others. In the modern age, this parable can be seen as a metaphor for societal divisions and the choices we make in our daily lives, which will ultimately divide us into two nations. In essence, "you will know them by their fruits."

The Sheep

According to Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit consists of nine qualities: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A person who bears these fruits is going to be counted in the nation of sheep.

• Loving: Demonstrates genuine care and compassion for others. Prioritizes building strong, healthy relationships. Shows empathy and understanding towards those in need.

• Joy: Radiates positivity and happiness, even in challenging circumstances. Finds contentment in their current situation. Expresses gratitude for life's blessings.

• Peace: Exudes calmness and serenity, even in turbulent situations. Has a deep sense of trust in God's sovereignty. Strives for inner peace and reconciliation with others.

• Patience: Demonstrates endurance and perseverance in the face of adversity. Shows understanding and tolerance towards others' weaknesses. Waits on God's timing and plan.

• Kindness: Displays genuine concern and care for others' well-being. Acts with generosity and compassion towards those in need. Offers words of encouragement and support.

• Goodness: Exhibits moral integrity and uprightness. Strives to do what is right and just in all situations. Shows a commitment to living a virtuous life.

• Faithfulness: Demonstrates loyalty and commitment to relationships and responsibilities. Keeps promises and maintains trust. Remains steadfast in their faith and values.

• Gentleness: Exhibits humility and meekness. Shows consideration and tact in interactions with others. Avoids boasting or seeking to elevate themselves above others.

• Self-Control: Exercises restraint and moderation in thoughts, words, and actions. Avoids impulsiveness and seeks wisdom in decision-making. Cultivates emotional intelligence and stability.

  
  

A person who bears the fruit of the Spirit is not perfect but is continually growing and striving to reflect these qualities in their daily life.

The Goats

Conversely, there are those people who exhibit the traits of someone who does not bear the fruit of the Spirit. They may display the following characteristics:

• Instead of Love: Apathy, Indifference, and Selfishness. Shows a lack of concern for others' well-being. Prioritizes personal interests and desires above relationships. Displays selfish and egotistical tendencies.

• Instead of Joy: Bitterness, Resentment, and Unhappiness. Radiates negativity and discontentment. Holds grudges and dwells on past hurts. Struggles with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

• Instead of Peace: Anxiety, Worry, and Turmoil. Experiences inner turmoil and conflict. Struggles with fear, anxiety, or worry. Has difficulty finding calmness or rest.

• Instead of Patience: Impatience, Irritability, and Restlessness. Struggles with waiting or delayed gratification. Displays irritability or anger when faced with challenges. Has difficulty persevering through difficult situations.

• Instead of Kindness: Cruelty, Harshness, and Insensitivity. Shows a lack of empathy or compassion for others. Displays cruel or harsh behavior towards others. Is insensitive to the feelings or needs of others.

• Instead of Goodness: Wickedness, Deceit, and Immorality. Engages in immoral or unethical behavior. Displays dishonesty or deceitfulness in relationships. Prioritizes personal gain over doing what is right.

• Instead of Faithfulness: Disloyalty, Unreliability, and Infidelity. Struggles with commitment or loyalty in relationships. Displays unfaithfulness or infidelity in personal or professional relationships. Has difficulty maintaining trust or following through on promises.

• Instead of Gentleness: Harshness, Brutality, and Arrogance. Displays a lack of humility or meekness. Shows arrogance or superiority over others. Uses harsh or brutal language or behavior to assert dominance.

• Instead of Self-Control: Impulsiveness, Recklessness, and Lack of Restraint. Acts impulsively without considering consequences. Displays reckless or irresponsible behavior. Struggles with addiction, compulsive behaviors, or other self-control issues.

  
  

In today's complex world, the lines between sheep and goats are often blurred. Many individuals fall somewhere in between, exhibiting both positive and negative behaviors depending on the situation. The challenge of the modern age is to continually reflect on our actions and their impact, striving to adhere more to the Commandments found in the Torah and the teachings of the true gospel of Christ.

Who Can Be a Shepherd or Pastor?

Traditionally, a person who receives a pastoral calling becomes a pastor. This could happen through revelation by a pastor, prophet, a dream, or hearing God's voice. These are not the only ways in which God may speak to a person about having the calling of the shepherd.

In my opinion, not just anyone can become a pastor. The calling must be set by the Lord, just like he appointed Aaron and his sons to be the first shepherds of Israel. After them, the original calling became a sort of hierarchical rule, inviting the Levites to serve in the temple.

Sadly, there have been many false teachers through history who have misled their followers. Individuals from various secular movements have raised concerns, showing the need for discernment in a diverse spiritual landscape. The Pope himself is a controversial figure, due to the lack of understanding of his role as a saint before the church. It isn't enough to try oto be humble. You have to be holy, displaying every characteristic that is expected of a priest, such as being fully adherent to the Word of God. The Vatican, in general, completely disregards many commandments, on a daily basis, including the renouncing of idols for the purpose of worship and keeping the passover as the Bible directs.

In this context, shepherds must continuously align themselves with biblical principles to provide effective and truthful guidance.

An Invitation to Shepherding

Shepherding represents a profound synthesis of care and mentorship that resonates in both agriculture and spirituality. Whether guiding sheep through fields or nurturing a congregation, true shepherds are needed today more than ever. They embody the characteristics of compassion and knowledge, fostering growth and understanding in a chaotic world.

Shepherding doesn't only involve pastors, rabbis, and ministers. Those of us with the calling to teach, who have a gentle heart, who have a compassionate manner, are also called to treat their brethren as sheep who need to belong to God's own flock. To be able to do this, a person must be at least a little bit like the pastors they are taught by. They must follow the commandments, belong to the gospel in full faith, be baptized in water and fire (the Spirit), and learn the Scriptures. All people can essentially belong more to the calling of the shepherd, through the love of Christ. It is necessary in every life setting; home, work, school, and the community.

As we navigate through our spiritual journey, let us look upon our lives and let us strive to embody the qualities of good shepherds, cultivating wisdom, discernment, and dedication with everyone.