In defense of the hired hand (John 10:11-18; Acts 4:5-12)

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There is something that doesn’t sit well with me right from the start of this Gospel passage: the characterization of the hired hand. He is fearful and careless. This doesn’t sit well for selfish reasons—because a hired hand is all I’ve ever been, professionally speaking. My titles have included farmhand, fry cook, server, assistant, caregiver, and now associate rector. I’ve never owned my own business or flock, never been an Executive Anything. And yet I’d like to think I’ve done good, faithful, strong, even excellent work.