When we see our failures, both as pastors to set a good standard, and as members
of the church to live up to God’s standard, we look again to the Chief Shepherd,
Jesus Christ. Because of his perfect standard and life, that crown of glory that
awaits your pastors who are faithful shepherds in leading you to and through the
word of God also awaits you. You too will receive the crown of glory that will never
fade away. This prize will not be awarded in heaven only to those who were pastors
in Christ’s kingdom; this never-fading crown of glory awaits every single believer,
sheep and shepherd alike, who put their trust in Christ for their salvation and await
his deliverance from this passing world and these vainglories.
Peter makes that perfectly clear earlier in his letter when he says to all the believers,
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he
has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ
from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept
in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3,4). That inheritance—that crown of glory that is
held out as a prize for your pastors in this text—will also be awarded to you in
heaven as you model your life after your shepherds. So, because that never-fading
crown of glory awaits you in heaven, follow the example of your pastors.
As we see God’s directive for your pastors on this Good Shepherd Sunday, may you
also find ample application for your own lives through this word of God. And may
your pastors be examples for you to follow. Trust them, because they bear witness
to their Savior and yours. And model your life after them, because their unfading
crown of glory also awaits you in heaven. Amen.
