This Sunday the focus is on leadership and the difference between good and bad leadership. People tend to think of leadership as something that goes either up or down the line: Those in charge want others to follow them, while those getting the directions praise or blame their leaders for the job they’re doing. In this way of seeing things, both sides are looking only at the performance of the other, not themselves.

Most of us tune out stories we’ve heard repeatedly. If an old friend says, “Did I ever tell you about the time . . . ?” we may inwardly groan, knowing quite well how long this recitation will last. We change the channel if tonight’s movie is one that’s aired too many times. We beg off if a child wants us to read that favorite book for the umpteenth time.

I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd puts the sheep before himself, sacrifices himself if necessary. A hired man is not a real shepherd. The sheep mean nothing to him. He sees a wolf come and runs for it, leaving the sheep to be ravaged and scattered by the wolf. He’s only in it for the money. The sheep don’t matter to him.

People who hear voices when no one is around are considered peculiar, yet we all hear voices in our heads. Some are loud, some soft and subtle, but they are there.

Loving God, your mercy endures forever. We give you thanks for hearing the prayers we make in the name of Jesus, who lives with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever.

Which brings us to the good—the ones who like Peter and the first disciples obeyed God and not men; like the early believers who knew Christ and thereby became children of God and members

Example is not the main thing in influencing others, it is the only thing. —Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)