What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? Much in every way! First of all, the Jews have been entrusted with the very words of God.

-Parallel verses:
‭‭I Peter‬ ‭5:2-3‬
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not Lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

Some have the privilege of being front-runners in life.  A few of these are: Adam and Eve - the first people; Christopher Columbus - the first European to land in America; Thomas Edison - inventor of electricity; The Wright Brothers - the first to fly an airplane, and Steve Jobs and Bill Gates - inventors of the personal computer.  They had the opportunity to experience something very unique and special; something new and relatively unknown to most or all on planet earth.  And after they were blessed with the minds to create these inventions or travel to new lands, they also had a responsibility to educate and train others.  They would lead new people to the lands they discovered or they would share their invention with others.

The Jews, similarly, were the first people to receive the Word of God.  They have a deep heritage in the faith — in having a relationship with God.  This benefit was not to be used to “lord it” over others or exact benefits from them.  Instead, they were to shepherd those new to the faith and help them study God’s Word.  They were supposed to be investing in those entrusted to them!

Lord, teach me to be a bigger investor in others.  This world likes to compare and belittle.  You teach us to work as unto you, have our confidence sourced in you, and then to share your goodness and blessings with others.  In  ‭‭John‬ ‭13:35‬, Jesus says: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”‬‬ May it be said of us true followers of Jesus Christ!  Who can I shepherd today and who have you entrusted to me?  Help me to be a motivational and deliberate mentor!

May love guide the way as I interact with those from different cultures, different faiths, and different backgrounds.  Give me insight to see past the outward facade and into their heart need.