Take care of my Sheep.

This is a profound and weighty charge, echoing the resurrected Christ's solemn command to Peter. It is a call to love, leadership, and sacrificial service.

Here is a poem reflecting on that sacred trust.

---

The Shepherd's Charge

The question asked, three times, beside the sea: “Do you love me?Then tend my sheep for me.” Not“Build a throne,” or “Win the world’s esteem,” But“Feed my lambs,” a humble, daily theme.

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” (John 21:15)

This call is not for glory or for pride, But to walk close,to guard, to gently guide. To seek the one that wanders from the fold, To carry them back to the shelter’s hold.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)

So clothe me, Lord, in Your own tenderness, To see their stress,to ease their weariness. To know the sound of each entrusted name, To lead them to Your green pastures and Your calm.

Give me a shepherd’s heart, a watchful eye, A ready hand to help,a knee to pry The brambles of despair and doubt away, And point them to the dawn,the truth, the way.

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve. (1 Peter 5:2)

And on the days the task feels far too deep, Remind me,Lord, these precious sheep are Yours. I am Your under-shepherd,meant to keep Them safe and bring them to Your open doors.

For You are the Chief Shepherd, great and true, And I will answer,Lord, to You.