Both Ezekiel and Hebrews have something to say about spiritual leaders in today's OYB reading. Ezekiel (33.1-20 and 34.1-31) speaks soberly of the responsibility of the watchman and the shepherd. Hebrews (13.17) encourages a right attitude toward spiritual leaders and their responsibility.
Both the OT and NT readings today indicate a grave responsibility upon spiritual leaders to do just that - lead. Furthermore, both readings also indicate the responsibility of followers to follow.
Although every person has a choice of whom to follow, it is important to remember that that relationship is not a democracy. Spiritual leaders do not represent the will of the people but of God and accordingly are accountable to God for the well-being of the people.
When this relationship is right, both leader and follower walk in blessing.
A "spiritual leader" with no followers is no leader at all. Likewise a "spiritual follower" with no leader is no follower at all.
Father, help us to grasp the ramifications of both leading and following.
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