In reading my OYB today I am struck by the words Jesus used to reinstate "Simon son of John" (no longer Peter) back into fellowship-- it is a charge for Christian leadership over a community of faith:
1) "...feed my lambs...": initially focus on the younger generation and those who are new to faith, teaching them the Holy Scriptures and guiding them in discipleship for righteous living. Once you have that started...
2) "...pastor my sheep...": now learn the entire flock, tending their needs and concerns, creating opportunities for fellowship and pastoral care; then...
3) "...feed my sheep...": now broaden the discipleship process, building on the strength of the "lambs" and expand the importance of biblical obedience and training toward righteousness to all generations in that community.
It's a thought.
