Justin March leads the Bethany Lutheran Church Men’s Ministry and sends a weekly email message to the Men’s group every week.  Justin has generously permitted us to post his weekly reflections here.

In these times of isolation, I see a lot of lost sheep. I see one herd that only believes what they are hearing from our politicians. I see another herd that only believes what they are hearing from our doctors. And I see another herd that only believes what they are hearing from our scientists. I get it. I really do. In unsettled circumstances, it is natural to look for a leader. When we are faced with fear, loneliness, and uncharted waters, we look for someone who can give us comfort and peace. And whether that person knows what they are talking about, or not, the lost sheep are going to follow.

The problem is this. What if the sheep follow the wrong leader? Is it possible that the sheep are so desperate for answers that they believe only what they want to hear? Is it possible that they are so blinded by fear that they do not see alternative solutions? And is it possible that whom the sheep decide to follow knows nothing more about the situation than they do?

It is easy to become a lost sheep when we have been separated from the flock. We find ourselves alone, isolated, and searching for answers. But we must be careful about following someone who does not have any more information than we do. We must be wary of false prophets, empty promises, and wolves in sheep’s clothing. And we must be on alert for dangers that these so-called leaders may lead us into.

The only way the lost sheep can find solace, is to follow the leader that truly cares about them. The leader that has already been proclaimed the shepherd for his people. The leader that loved his sheep so much he was willing to die for them on that cross. And the leader who fulfills his promises, speaks the truth, and never leads us astray.

There are many lost sheep in this time of crisis. There are many who are looking for someone to step up, tell them what’s next, and subside their fears. And there are many who do not know who to believe or who to turn to. This is where we step in. This is where we become the disciples Jesus wants us to be. This is where we open our bibles, share God’s words, and let them know there is a leader who will never forsake them. A leader who does know the plans for their lives. A leader who will not guide them into danger, but instead, into a life devoid of fear. A leader who has already stepped up to the challenge, proved that he can help us weather any storm, and loved us through every trial and tribulation this earth has bestowed.

My friends, there are a lot of lost sheep. But the choice is up to us. We can either follow the flock in their aimless wanderings, or we can step out of the herd and allow God to use us. We can let our light shine so that others can see the good works he is doing in our lives. And we can stay positive, loving, forgiving, and gracious so that the lost sheep want to follow us. There is peace and salvation amongst everything that is going on, but without a good leader, many will never experience it. So, as you start your week, ask yourself this simple question. Will I be the shepherd or the sheep?