Three Qualities of The Good Shepherd
ACTS 11:1-18; PSALM 42; JOHN 10:10-18
The Good Shepherd Cares; Jesus says “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10) The Good Shepherd cares and protects the sheep. While the hired hand sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep, the Good Shepherd is even ready to lay down his life for the sheep (John 10:15). True leaders are always ready to make sacrifice.
Again, Jesus says “I am the Good Shepherd; I know my own and my own know me (John 10:14). Jesus knows us; he knows each one of us by name. Your grand Father may not know you; but Jesus knows you. Your mother may not know you but Jesus knows you. Your priest may not know you but Jesus knows you. (Jesus knows all about our struggles…) Thus says the Lord, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations” (Jer.1:5). We cannot hide from God, he knows us personally. We too should desire to know him and follow him sincerely.
Lastly, the Good Shepherd does not discriminate. Jesus says “I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So, there shall be one flock, one shepherd.” (John 10:16). Similarly, in the first reading, Peter was criticised for associating with uncircumcised people. Yet, Peter’s choice was influenced by the Lord, who wants us to view the world as he does, to love and accept our neighbors and to welcome strangers with charity. The Bible says “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (HEB 13:1-2).
LET US PRAY
*O God, perfect light of the blessed, may we rejoice in the full measure of your grace for ages unending. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.*
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
