Day 35: Richard Baxter - “Knowing Tenderly”
“So he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.”
Introduction
One of humanity’s greatest needs is a community. It’s no wonder, then, that the Bible emphasizes the necessity of the church—the intimate gathering of God’s people. But no church is perfect—at times, we feel neglected. And at other times, we’re the ones who cause that feeling for others. This kind of brokenness has always plagued the church—and still does.
To address this issue, Richard Baxter, an English pastor from the 17th century, served the church tirelessly. He made sure everyone in his congregation was seen, known, and loved. Though he is usually a model for pastors, we can all learn from him and imitate his heart for the body of Christ.
Knowing Tenderly
Baxter believed that a pastor is not someone who only stands in the pulpit; he is someone who also stands among God’s people. While serving in Kidderminster, England, Baxter went from house to house, ministering to individuals and families personally and intimately. He asked them about their spiritual conditions, battles with sin, and struggles. By doing so, he better understood how to apply God’s Word to their lives.
His congregation wasn’t a mere project; he saw them as they were—souls in need of God’s grace and truth. He felt the spiritual urgency for his parish to know God and grow in Him. Despite how tiring and emotionally taxing his ministry was, he always gave himself to care for each individual, knowing that this was the heart of Christ.
Jesus had deep compassion for His people and His heart ached for them to be saved (Matt. 9:36). This is what moved Him to serve individuals and ultimately die on the cross for their salvation. And in turn, the heart of Christ moved Baxter to also serve on a personal level.
Reflection
It’s easy to say that we love the church, but Baxter would challenge us by asking, “Do we know everyone’s names? How often do we go out of our way to know someone better? How much do we really care for one another?”
When it comes to loving the church, we all have our shortcomings (even the one writing this devotional!). Therefore, let’s pray that God would widen our hearts for one another and that we would love as He loves. Let’s make every effort to get to know others more, not just in word but in genuine care. May we be a church that doesn’t leave anyone behind but cares for every person.