Gospel Reflections for May 12 2019
We are not sheep!
Jesus mentions sheep in today’s Gospel …but not for us!
Everyone then knew sheep were timid and easily frightened. They followed their shepherd closely because they felt helpless and could not defend themselves against wolves. They needed a good shepherd! Well, Jesus is that Good Shepherd who bravely leads His sheep to good food and water, and even with nearby wolves. Jesus is our Good Shepherd who is both courageous facing danger and compassionate to those in need. He will not be frightened away or intimidated from loving His flock. I like that image better!
When Jesus said to His disciples, “Follow me,” He did not mean for you to follow Him as timid sheep might follow a strong shepherd. He actually meant for you to follow Him …as the Shepherd! Jesus does not call you to be timid sheep …He calls you to be brave shepherds! It is the virtues of the Good Shepherd that you imitate, not the sheep!
You are often in a position of influence over others in some way, whether it’s your family, friends, neighbors, social media contacts, or fellow employees. Think how they will feel if they sense you always have their best interests at heart, and will courageously defend them from bad things and compassionately tend to their needs, and lead them to good things. They will want to follow you! Think how wonderful you will feel when people tell you how grateful they are for your leadership.
This Sunday we celebrate Mother’s Day and ask God’s blessings on our mothers, living or not, who have been a wise shepherd in our life in important ways.
I remember many years ago I had a falling out with my own twin brother. Our mother never took sides in our argument, but would end every conversation with the simple phrase, “Have you talked with your brother.” That simple phrase led to a reconciliation that we are both grateful for. Our mother exercised family leadership in a wonderful way.
I hope you have a wise, courageous, and compassionate shepherd in your life helping you stay connected to Our Lord. I also hope that you might also be that wise shepherd helping others on the same path. This Gospel was written to inspire you to be that person.
Following Jesus means being a shepherd, not sheep. Let us fulfill our calling to be good shepherds!
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
God is indeed the Good Shepherd. “Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses.” He takes good care of us..
Well said!
Thank you, Fr Dave, for showing us the face of the Good Shepherd in your weekly
reflections. We appreciate your love and dedication!
It is important that we speak out and be that shepherd who follows the Lord.
If only our chosen shepherds would get on the same page and lead us all to follow
the One who never leaves us.
Yes, be a good shepherd!
I was thinking as I heard this Gospel that following Jesus and only relying on Him and that He will get us through any situation.
I also loved your refkection on how we are to be leaders and be there for others. Since we have that personal relationship with Jesus and He lives in us. We need to be Christ to others.
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, will help you to be a good shepherd too!
Fr. Dave
Jesus loves us so much that he wants us to show our joy ,in life with him. If we allow that joy to shine ,it he make him shine as he is in the center of our heart.
He chose well to dwell in our hearts.
Thank you for all that you do in your ministry!!
God bless
Jane
You are very welcome!
So be it – Amen!
Thanks again for your meaningful reflections.
Amen!