I am the good shepherd.
Living in the year 2018, many of us do not know or understand what the life of a shepherd is like, to be able to relate better to today’s gospel. Being a shepherd is a lifestyle, not a job. What are some of the qualities that a shepherd must possess? A shepherd should be courageous, committed and deeply caring. Moses and David were two shepherds that became great leaders of God’s people in the Old Testament.
Jesus too cares for each one of us in a deep and personal way. Today’s gospel tells us that Jesus laid down His life for each one of us. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. Pope Benedict XVI wrote: “The human race – every one of us – is the sheep lost in the desert which no longer knows the way.”
Jesus will especially continue looking for us, if we are lost in sin, because we are children of God. See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet, so we are.
Jesus is the good shepherd, who keeps the flock together. Jesus is at the center of our life. There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved. God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike