FEEDING THE FLOCK

For many people this phrase always connotes a shepherd who takes care of his sheep. This association is used in the Old Testament to describe God:
"He will feed his flock like a shepherd..." (Isaiah 40:11) and
"As shepherds seek out their flocks when they are among their scattered sheep, so I will seek out my sheep." (Ezekiel 34:12); and in the New Testament to describe Christ:
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11) and "My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me." (John 10:27).
This phrase also refers to those individuals (also known as bishops, overseers, or elders) who tend to members of the church:
"Keep watch over us and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church..." (Acts 20:28) and
"...exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge..." (I Peter 5:1-2).
Also, many sermons have been preached about the qualifications of the elders, listed in I Timothy 3:1-7, especially when a church is preparing to install additional men to this designation.

When growing up, I considered an elder of the church an old geezer who lacked a funny bone. In later years I came to realize that many of these men indeed had a great sense of humor but were quite stoic in a public assemblage. The two main churches of Christ I attended (one in NM and one in TX) would be considered enormous compared to California standards. Elders were expected to know each and every member--not an easy task. It was also felt that these leaders were responsible for everything and although I don't remember the accoulades, they sure were attacked for everything that went wrong; making a person muse, "Why would anybody want to hold such a position?"

Since attending church at Long Beach, my opinion has somewhat changed. The majority of the eldership is near my age (I can't be that old), so I can no longer in good conscience deem a church overseer as an old fuddy-duddy. Long Beach is blessed to have four very hard working, personable elders who are not intimidated to show their humorous side in front of the congregation. Will not try to show too much partiality, but here is my characterization of the four:

1) Chuck--a very caring man who has endured a rough life and overcame personal addictions to become a very knowledgeable, serious student of the Word.

2) Jim--the most reserved of the group (at least in front) who is a very dedicated, dependable man with a great tenor voice who doesn't give himself enough credit, but whose daughter I absolutely adore and would be proud to call my own.

3) Bruce--a sensible, loving man with tremendous devotion for the youth; a comedic genius with great one liners who should take his act on the road. Last, but certainly not least,

4) Steve--a great teacher with incredible musical talent, including voice, who always has something to say and is not afraid to say it. In my unbiased opinion, an absolute nut who with bushier hair and beard is probably not the ideal picture one would have of a church elder.

There are also four lovely, spiritual women who should be applauded just for putting up with these clowns. But seriously, Judy, Marilyn, Wanda, and Laura not only support their husbands but work laboriously behind the scenes.

The position of elder is unglamorous, time consuming, takes away from family life, and has no monetary compensation. It attracts blame, criticism, and insults. Instead of finding fault, we should admire and respect those who willingly accept this challenge and strive to do what they think is best for their flock.

[NOTE: I mistakenly gave Beth Moore a new name in my last blog. That’s what I get for relying on my memory.]

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Another year has come and gone. Time for making new year's resolutions and a time for remembering those resolutions blown from the year just past. We should always strive for improvement, but in the year 2008, I don't particularly feel the need to profess any resolutions or eat the traditional black-eyed peas to guarantee a great coming year.

Although I didn't accomplish those goals set a year ago, 2007 turned out quite well. Cleaned out a lot of my baggage and after studying Beth Moreland's "Believing God" series, realized there were three issues facing me that I had trouble believing would ever transpire--1) finding a job I could be content in; 2) Jonathan making it through life and finally being at peace; and 3) finding love that will be right for me.

As you already know, I found that job. Actually can say I love the job and, yes, even though neither my passion nor related to my degree, I am content. And working only two weeks and getting off three with pay, well, hey.....

Have struggled with Jonathan for awhile. He's literally wasted four years of his life, and to admit that I was fearful of his fate would be an understatement. However, 2008 will be the beginning of a new phase in Jonathan's life. Jonathan has agreed to get an associate degree from a local community college in San Diego County. Can't say enough what a blessing my parents have been in my life. They have stood by me, tried to encourage me and gave me excellent advice (which many times my stupidity hindered me from taking), and financially supported me and Jonathan on numerous occasions. Mom and Dad have agreed to pay for Jonathan's schooling, room, and board as long as he finishes with passing grades. Everyone wants Jonathan to succeed. Don and Nat even showed their support by giving Jonathan a Mac laptop for Christmas. School will be the main focus; a job secondary. Jonathan is now renting a studio adjacent to a nice family residence in close proximity to the campus. This is Jonathan's last chance, and he knows it, and finally has the desire and determination to do what is expected and complete something started.

To find love in cyberspace may not be the best option, but it seems to be successful for many couples. Although that hopefulness about Mr. Vegas has dwindled, there are still many positive aspects to internet dating. Mmm, and they say women are hard to figure out and understand.

Well, two out of three ain't bad.