“I will set shepherds over them who will care for them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be missing, declares the Lord.”
– Jeremiah 23:4 (ESV)

Some of the most influential people in my life have been coaches. It was a coach who instilled in me a love for sports (Clarence Jeffcoat). It was a coach who spent time with me and encouraged me (Bobby O’Rear). It was a coach who taught me to play with passion and joy (John Byrd). It was a coach who taught me that the team is always more important than the individual (Charlie Macaluso). It was a coach who taught me how to win gracefully and to lose with dignity (John Daye). It was a coach who helped me get my first teaching and coaching job (Joe Parker). It was a coach who taught me that being a coach is about much more than winning and losing (Pinky Babb).  It was a coach who mentored me and encouraged me throughout much of my ministry with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (Jeff Duke). I thank God for always having responsible shepherds to encourage, challenge, and hold me accountable. Coaches have always been there when I needed them. They never let me stray too far or stay lost too long.

While the world may not see the shepherd as very important, God sees it differently. Good shepherds protect and care for their sheep. They take their job seriously because they realize that God has placed them in this important position of responsibility. It’s not happenstance or coincidence that the shepherd is called to perform his task. The Bible says that God “appoints” shepherds. Appointments usually come after careful consideration of one’s qualifications and aptitude for the job. Many candidates apply, but only a few are chosen. As coaches, I think God wants us to see and understand the importance of the “appointment” He has given us. Wherever we find ourselves serving, He has placed us there. To the best of our ability, we are to look after and protect the sheep He has placed in our care. We will be held accountable.

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to shepherd Your flock. Give me wisdom and strength today as I perform the tasks for which You have appointed me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.