Shepherds and Teachers All the Time

A doctor needs knowledge and experience in order to perform his work. But his patients appreciate it when he shows kindness, compassion, concern, and sincere interest. These qualities must be part of his personality.  Similar qualities must likewise become a part of the personality of a good teacher and shepherd, part of his everyday self.  A real teacher will be prepared to instruct those around him when necessary.  "A word at its right time is O how good!" says Proverbs 15:23.  the "right time" may be when he is speaking from the platform, when he is preaching from house to house, or when he is having a conversation  in the Kingdom Hall or on the telephone. Likewise, a good shepherd  strives to display fine, caring qualities  at all times, not just when he is making shepherding calls.  Having 'opened wise his heart,' he will take advantage of every opportunity to  shepherd the sheep, giving them the care they need at the right time. This is what makes him beloved in the eyes of the sheep. -Mark 10:43.

Wolfgang, now an elder, recalls a social visit made on his family by a ministerial servant and his wife. He says: "Our children were thrilled with the attention they got and the pleasant time we had.  They are still talking about it." Yes, this ministerial servant showed  that he cared: he was 'opening wide his heart.'

Another opportunity to 'open wide one's heart' is by visiting the sick, sending them a short note of encouragement, or calling them on the telephone-anything to let them know that you care! Offer help when needed. If they want to talk, listen attentively.  Talk about positive, exciting theocratic activities  in the local congregation  and elsewhere.  Help them to focus on the glorious future reserved for those who love Jehovah. -2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

In Addition to Shepherding Calls

Keeping in mind the purpose of shepherding, it is obvious that making formal shepherding calls at brother's homes, although important, is only part of what is involved. A loving shepherd 'opens wide his heart' by being approachable under all circumstances and at all times. the warm relationship he cultivates with his brothers assures them that in times of darkness, they fear nothing bad, knowing that their loving brother, the Christian shepherd, cares for them. -Psalm 23:4. 

Yes, all of you Christian shepherds 'open wide your heart.' Demonstrate sincere love for your brothers-encourage them, refresh them, build them up spiritually in every way you can. Help them to be steadfast in the faith. (Colossians 1:23) Blessed with Christian shepherds who 'open wide their heart,' the sheep will lack nothing.  They will be determined, as was David, to dwell in the house of Jehovah to the length of days.  (Psalm 23:1, 6) What more  could a loving shepherd want?  

Next time: Why Be Forgiving? 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000