Shepherding
Shepherding is a useful metaphor when considering member care
Of all the descriptions of Jesus we find in the New Testament, one that many find helpful in times of need is the image of a shepherd (Luke 15:3–7; John 10:11). Psalm 23, where the actions of the shepherd (God) bring comfort and encouragement, has even found a place within our increasingly secular society. While we may be far removed from an agrarian community, there is something about what a shepherd does for his sheep that touches the deepest part of who we are. People understand what it is like to be well cared for, watched over, and led. When one experiences those types of things, there is a greater opportunity for growth in one’s life. This is no less true for those who serve in missions.
The Latin word for “shepherd” (pascere) means to feed, and refers to the feeding, well-being, and growth of whatever flock the shepherd has charge over and is where we get the English word “pastor.”1 Pastors care for the flocks of believers under their charge (1 Pet. 5:2). Considering member care, the word “care” means “to be concerned or solicitous, to have thought or regard for.”2 While not specifically “pastors,” member care providers function like a pastor/shepherd when the health and well-being of their particular “flock” is given a high priority.
While member care on the mission field may include a variety of elements, such as administrative needs, language acquisition, housing, and financial support, it is vital to remember that the emotional health, relational concerns, and spiritual growth of those who serve for the sake of the gospel is of first priority. Yes, the goal is to have missionaries (sheep) proclaiming the gospel to the Japanese. Yet, if the sheep are not shepherded well, that overall goal will be more difficult to attain. Also, if we see shepherding as the umbrella over all these areas of member care, there is really no differentiation in who exhibits care for others. While mission organizations may have people specifically designated to the area of member care, others—for example field leaders, teammates, and friends—have the responsibility to care for missionaries too.
The acronym CARE may be used to evaluate if the individual sheep are being holistically seen, effectively nourished, and truly resilient. When these are in place, thriving is enhanced and the best possible outcomes can be achieved.
Compassionate nature: Scripture is clear that God is a compassionate God. James 5:11 says, “You have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful” (ESV). And in Colossians 3:12, Paul calls on believers to have “compassionate hearts” (ESV). In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus teaches us that the shepherd exhibits compassion as he goes after the one who is lost and wounded. Even though hard decisions may have to be made or a confrontation necessary, the overall goal is for the benefit of the flock and the individual sheep, all done from a heart of compassion.
Attentive listening: Listening is key to truly shepherd others. In his book, The Listening Life, Adam McHugh notes, “When the Lord asked King Solomon what he wanted, Solomon asked for what is usually translated as an ‘understanding heart’ or ‘discerning mind,’ but in the Hebrew it is literally a ‘listening heart’ (1 Kings 3:9).”3 Showing care for another person means listening all the way through to the concerns and needs of that person. It means listening beyond the words spoken.
Reconcile relationships: While we may not like to admit it, conflict sometimes arises within the missionary community. It may happen because of miscommunication, misunderstanding, or simply sin. However it is triggered, it needs to be dealt with effectively and expediently. Lingering conflict is the devil’s tool for mission ineffectiveness and is a significant cause of preventable attrition.4 Shepherds aware of conflict among the flock initiate reconciliation for the health of the ministry.
Encourage growth: The health of the sheep is important for the overall health of the flock. Making sure the flock is well fed spiritually, emotionally, and relationally is something any shepherd needs to pay attention to. By encouraging the members of the flock to engage in intellectual, spiritual, and relational opportunities, shepherds continue to stimulate growth, which leads to individual and corporate growth.
By keeping CARE in mind, shepherds are reminded who they are supposed to be and how best to serve their flock.
1. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/pastor
2. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/care
3. Adam S. McHugh, The Listening Life: Embracing Attentiveness in a World of Distraction (Downers Grove, Ill: IVP Books, an imprint of InterVarsity Press, 2015), 136.
4. Andrea Sears, “New Data Confirms that Team Conflict is One of the Primary Factors in Missionary Attrition,” https://www.alifeoverseas.com/new-data-confirms-that-team-conflict-is-one-of-the-primary-factors-in-missionary-attrition (February 18, 2020).