A BATTLE OF MINDSETS

DAY 106/366

Two distinct mindsets which prompt corresponding actions are presented by Jesus in the parable of the good shepherd: “the ownership mindset” and the “hired-hand mindset”. It becomes clear quite early what actions characterize each of these.

While a shepherd, with an ownership mindset, stands with and for the sheep, prepared to defend and even risk his life for the sheep, a hired hand is a master at self preservation. Jesus’ words paint the picture perfectly:
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The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it."(John 10:12)

No amount of forewarning, or imminent danger is enough motivation for a hired hand to risk anything for sheep they don’t deem as their own. Unfortunately, this mindset permeates many spheres of life, particularly when we are entrusted with either people or things. Many adopt the mindset of a hired hand and so do the bare minimum, the price that costs them nothing.

There is no enthusiasm, no commitment, no desire to protect or preserve because they aren’t the owners. But beloved, until we adopt an ownership mindset, even if we were hired hands, we cannot be really trusted with our own.

#sly