Safe and Sound – July 22, 2024

Read: Jeremiah 23:1-6

“I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing,” declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:3,4

Safe and Sound

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

What are some things you do to stay safe? Wearing a seat belt while traveling keeps you safe, and so does wearing a helmet when you ride your bike. Can you list some people who help keep you safe? Police officers and firefighters come to mind right away. Parents definitely help keep you safe. Did anyone say their pastor? Yes, pastors help keep you safe!

Through the prophet Jeremiah, God talks about the important work of a pastor. God says he will place shepherds over his people to tend them, just as a shepherd tends his sheep. Shepherds work hard to provide food, water, and safety for their flocks. They must endure rough weather. Shepherds may have to stand between their sheep and wild, hungry animals. They might be all alone as they face these difficulties. Shepherds truly care for their sheep, whatever the situation.

God says that he places special shepherds over his people—their pastors. The job of a pastor is that important to God! God loves his people so much that he wants to make sure they are safe and provided for. He treasures you so much that he sent Jesus as your Savior. God doesn’t want us to suffer the fear and terror of life without him. He doesn’t want any to be led away or missing from his flock. Pastors share the love of God with the people around them. They try to protect them from danger. Your pastor wants to keep you safe.

Ask your pastor, “What do you use to keep us safe?” He’ll answer, “God’s Word.” Pastors feed their people with the truth of God’s Word. They baptize people and give the Lord’s Supper. A pastor listens when people feel guilt and sorrow over sin and reassures them of God’s forgiveness. Pastors want to keep the people in their congregation safe. They are not worried about wild animals but something much worse. In 1 Peter, we read, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” It is no surprise that people would be afraid, even terrified. The devil wants to lure you away from God’s love.

We are so thankful that God uses pastors to help keep us safe. They warn us when sin is luring us away from the flock. They share God’s Word to strengthen our faith. They truly care for the people in their congregation. What a blessing!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, we know that you want to keep us safe until we are home in heaven. Thank you so much for pastors who tend us with your Word and sacraments. Keep us always in the safety of your flock. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Name as many things as you can that a shepherd does—ready, set, go!
• Name as many things as you can that a pastor does—ready, set, go!

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What are some similarities between a shepherd and a pastor?
• From what does your pastor want to keep you safe?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What “weapon” does your pastor use to keep you safe?
• What qualities make for a good pastor? Why do you think that?