hearers only” (James 1:22). When Jesus asked His disciples, “Lovest thou me?” He knew they would readily answer, “Yea, Lord” (John 21:15). He also knew enduring obedience would be predicated on their response—for thus Christ explained, saying, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). ” In answering the Savior’s question, the apostles pledged devotion to the Master; in following His admonition, they honored their vow by being “doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22).
Loving the Savior is not an idle pastime; the Good Shepherd requires more from those who claim discipleship. But how much more? Prior to His crucifixion, Christ prepared the apostles to carry on His legacy, counseling that, “If any man serve me, let him follow me” (John 12:26). And upon His ascension, Christ exhorted His followers to “feed my sheep” (John 21:15-17). True disciples of Jesus Christ not only “honoureth [Christ] with their lips” (Mark 7:6), they emulate His stewardship as modern-day shepherds.
What, then, is the job of a shepherd? To love and serve all of Christ’s sheep. “For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me” (Matthew 25:35-36). For “inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40).
When was the last time you fed one of His sheep?