Between annual children’s Christmas productions and Precious Moments  figurines, we have had a lot of exposure to the idea of the shepherd. Yet the soft, sentimental portrayals we often see don’t quite capture the reality of the predator-fighting defenders found in Scripture.  In biblical times, families in the Middle East relied heavily on their sheep for survival—these animals provided food, wool, and hides. A great deal of time was spent finding good pastures and slow-movi

I’m relatively new to the concept of five-fold gifting, but I’ve always had an internal drive to shepherd. Maybe you, too, have felt a desire to guide those around you, talk through scripture, and see them grow stronger.  As a journalist, I love learning how context and perspective shape situations. And I love sharing that information to help others understand, adjust perspective, and grow.   Turns out, not everyone shares that passion. As I learn more about five-fold graces,

The shepherding grace is one that seeks out people, and invites compassion into the busyness and impersonality of culture. They create atmospheres of welcome and guard the hearts of the group. The people with this grace demonstrate the tenderness and mercy of our Jesus. Psalm 103:13 says, “ The same way a loving father feels toward his children— that’s but a sample of your tender feelings toward us, your beloved children, who live in awe of you.”  However, I almost sigh when

November is a perfect month to explore more about the Shepherding Grace. As you reflect on all you are grateful for and spend time with family, let your heart be shepherded and get equipped with us here on the blog and on The Live Worthy podcast . The Shepherding Grace gives you a HOME where you feel you belong, AND where you NURTURE and PROTECT others into a place of belonging! Shepherd (poimēn): One who leads sheep to safe and fertile pasture where they can rest and eat; o