In the Gospel reading today Jesus tells us he is
our shepherd. As a shepherd he leads and pro-
tects us. We may still face dangers and troubles
just as a real flock of sheep will even when they
have a good shepherd—storms, illness, preda-
tors— but our Lord will stay with us and deliver us
if we follow him.
We need to recognize and listen to his voice in
order to follow him. Sometimes we are distracted
by other voices—voices that encourage us to
think we don’t need a shepherd or we should fol-
low another leader that promises money or power
or pleasure in harmful things. Sometimes we just
stray away from the flock and then it is hard to
hear the shepherd’s voice. Sometimes we don’t
know how to find our way back.
What can we do to hear the Lord more clearly?
We can pray, receive the sacraments (especially
Holy Eucharist), read Scripture, worship regularly,
serve others. These things help us hear and fol-
low Jesus. Jesus also reminds us that we belong
to him. We have been given to him by the Father.
Even if we get lost we still belong to him. Jesus
knows us. Not just our name or as one of a large
group. He knows us closely and intimately.
Peace.
Mary