Shepherding

God equips those He calls.

“You shall take this rod in your hand, with which you shall do the signs.” [1]

Shepherds of old carried a rod and a staff. The shepherd’s rod was a stick or club that could be used to discipline, protect and count the flock. The shepherd’s staff was a longer and thinner stick with a hook on one end, used for guiding the flock and for capturing or saving sheep.

Kings are often pictured holding an ornamental scepter—a rod symbolizing their power and sovereignty. Some priests carry staves as a symbol of their power and authority. A shepherd’s rod and staff indicate the kind of services that he provides for the sheep.

The Lord promoted Moses from shepherding animals to shepherding people. The Lord transformed his shepherding rod into the “rod of God” for doing miracles. [2]

With rod in hand, and with God working in and through him, Moses freed Egypt’s slaves from their captors and led them to the Promised Land.

“You [God] led Your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.” “He made His own people go forth like sheep and guided them in the wilderness like a flock; and He led them on safely, so that they did not fear; but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.” [3]

Jesus Christ is referred to as the “Rod from the stem of Jesse.” Christ shall rule with “a rod of iron” when He establishes the Kingdom of God on earth. [4]

Jesus our Lord is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for us. He leads us out of this present world of oppression into His eternal and glorious Promised Land better than the one on earth. All along the way on this journey, His rod and staff comfort us so that we do not fear evil. He is leading us to His house and to His banqueting table. Surely His goodness and mercy will be with us all the days of our lives. [5]

“Lord Jesus Christ, Good Shepherd, thank You for faithfully and skillfully shepherding our souls. Thank You for setting for us an example. By Your grace, please equip us and open doors for us to share the Gospel with others. Please empower and embolden us to shepherd others into Your eternal kingdom - the heavenly Promised Land. In Your Name I pray. Amen.”

[1] Exodus 4:17
[2] Exodus 3:1; 7:10-12; 17:5-7, 9
[3] Psalm 77:20; Psalm 78:52-53
[4] Isaiah 11:1; Revelation 2:27; 12:5; 19:15
[5] John 10:7-15; Psalm 23