November 2025 (Serve not because you “have” to, but because you “want” to!)

Bible passages: 1 Peter 5:2-3

“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; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

Reflections:

In this Bible passage, Jesus is teaching us that one of the most important things a church shepherd can do is bring people home to the Chief Shepherd who is Jesus. We are called to follow and emulate the Good Shepherd in order to be good shepherds ourselves.

St Peter extols us to emulate the examples of Jesus on how He cares and pastors His sheep; with love, patience, excellence and fortitude, not because He “must” but because He “wants to”.

Discussion Questions:

Do you serve because you “must” or because you “want”?

In what ways do you emulate Jesus as the Good Shepherd?

In what ways do you allow Jesus to teach you so that you too can be a “good shepherd”?

Let us Pray:

Dear Father, help me to be a light in the darkness and a source of hope and encouragement to those who need it most. Thank you, Lord, for every opportunity to serve You through others. Purify all my intentions and may my words and actions reflect your love and grace, and may I always seek to bring glory to the Most Holy Name of

Your beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen!