Numbers 4, 5

I used to think Christian leaders talked about numbers to brag. My view has changed. Leaders must account for their sheep to properly care for them. If someone is missing on Sunday morning, the leader asks, “Are they OK? I need to check on them this week.” When pastors are preaching, they are taking mental notes on who’s there and who’s missing.

My wife has embraced this shepherding principle her entire life. She makes note of those who are missing and checks up on them. Many have said, “I didn’t know anyone cared that I missed.” They are motivated to go to church knowing they will be missed if they stay home.

Jesus’ disciples were numbered. The Bible doesn’t say, “The select group of Jesus’ students.” It says, “The twelve.” We all have a name and a place in God’s Kingdom.