How does a shepherd care for scattered sheep? I googled it. Apparently it is difficult.

We are entering into a season in which our local churches will by and large remain scattered, not assembling in person on our regular rhythms. As we transition into this unprecedented time, the challenge to our pastors, Christ’s undershepherds of the church, is great. From meeting new and fluid needs of people, to determining how to bring God’s Word to people in separate locations, to concerns about the health and welfare of the community that they love—the stress and time sensitive pressure continues to build.

I would encourage each of us to pause and pray for our pastors. They are carrying a tremendous burden that we might not clearly see as we face our own daunting challenges. I invite you to join me in praying through Isaiah 11:2-3a for our pastors, as they model our Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ:

2 And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,
the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.

Grace and peace,
Carl Greene, Executive Director, Seventh Day Baptist General Conference