The most famous herding dog in my childhood was Lassie from the TV series. Although many different dogs were trained to work in the filming of this show, the beauty and intelligence of the star were its trademarks. However, in tight situations, she was loyal and vigilant in protecting the young boy, Timmy, the dog's constant companion. Episode after episode, you just knew that Lassie would defend Timmy, rescue him, or, if needed, run and get the help of his mother and father.
As believers, especially pastors, we are to defend, protect, and provide leadership to those in the faith who are young and inexperienced. We lead by example, living in integrity that aligns with God's standards, offering encouragement, understanding, listening, keeping confidences, praying, teaching biblical principles, practicing forgiveness, and showing compassion.
Today, I heard my pastor say that wherever we work and in whatever we do throughout our lives, these people are divine appointments, and this sphere of influence is our ministry and purpose in life.
I have found that to be true. No matter where I have been or how dire my circumstances, there were always others in my path who, needed encouragement, prayer, and a listening ear. My life counted even when my chips were down. God has been steadfast and faithful to me, and he is my example. I am to live this same way, with God's wisdom and strength, to be there for others.
It saddens me to see people in authority, whether in government, school systems, or as parents and employers, who influence large groups, or religious leaders who should impart wisdom based on God's teachings to guide people's spiritual journeys, who have strayed from their calling. Drowning in mixed messages that the culture sends out, many have lost sight of caring for the well-being of both people's bodies, souls, and spirits.
For a multitude of people, gone are the days of relying on these figures to make good choices for our children, to respect the privacy rights of public and private individuals, to protect and defend women, and sadly, a lack of respect for the preborn and the elderly.
When I hear about government leaders who vote in a block to prevent beneficial changes to save low income earners and the elderly from paying tax money that needs to go to groceries or transportation and house taxes on a home already paid for, it makes me think that many leaders have lost touch with the reality of the world that millions of Americans live in.
These sheepish sheepdogs, who should be guarding, vigilant, and making choices to improve the lives of their constituents, are lending an ear to dangerous parties that sway with the almighty dollar. Or it is simply that living comfortably in luxury, with no scarcity of provisions for insurance, medical care, food, housing, clothing, and transportation, their comfortable lifestyle has left them out of touch with the majority. Some are even seeking ways to increase their already plentiful funds by any means necessary.
Judgment, as our president stated this week in the Middle East, is left to God on many levels; however, some will feel the consequences of their actions in their lifetime as well.
God has begun by unveiling the wickedness and advantage taken by leaders in religious institutions all over the earth. Next will be the government, universities, public schools, sports, food, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as the media and entertainment industry, which will be challenged to change or face the firm hand of consequence.
The masses are cringing at taxation that robs them of most of their annual income. Slaves are what most feel like. We have been lulled, like the frog in the pan of water that is slowly heated. Getting used to this treatment, with children growing up in this culture, they do not want to change anything because they cannot imagine anything better. Working for change is hard work.
It takes all of us who see what is needed to speak up and demand change. It takes a multitude, not just a few wealthy individuals, who are willing to forgo pay to help improve the running of our government and uncover fraud, to truly serve and pave the way for the next generation to have an inviting world in which to live up to their full potential. Life is to be lived with freedom, integrity, and moral safety, ensuring that all basic needs are met.
Sheepdogs, yes, you; it is time to get off your couches. It is time to stand up and be counted. It is time to reconnect and work according to the divine plans of the Creator for us all.
Just as in the TV series, it was a relief to see Timmy saved as the fearless collie barked and chased a bear away that was threatening to hurt the lad; we can bring relief to a hurting world. I remember how it made me breathe easier when Lassie went for help when Timmy fell off a cliff and onto a narrow ledge, bringing the help needed to save him.
This is what is needed today. Fearless, protective, 'sheepdogs' who will stop harmful systems, laws, and crimes, calling them by their proper names. Call a crime a crime, no matter who commits it. No one should be exempt.
The final judgement is coming eventually, but why should our children and future generations endure injustice, hatred, danger, shame, and loss of privacy? Consider this and make a difference.
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