Good Shepherds 

   “I am the good shepherd.  I know my own and my own know me.  Just as the Father knows me and I know the Father.  And I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10: 14 – 15) 

   Today is known as “Good Shepherd” Sunday in the Catholic Church.  In the gospel reading, which is partially quoted above, Jesus clearly defines the role of the Good Shepherd and takes that role upon Himself.  He will and did, in fact, lay down His life for the sheep.

   Our priests and pastors are the representatives of Christ in this world.  They are to model their lives on the life of Jesus, to give their life for the good of the sheep.  They will not usually be asked to die for the sheep as Jesus did, however the life they live is to be devoted to serving God rather than their own wants and desires, to sacrifice what we might call a “normal” life, giving their all as the shepherd of His flock.  Thankfully, the vast majority take their mission to heart and become the shepherds the Lord desires, tending His flock with love and care.

   Sadly, there are some who fall short.  Just as sadly they are the ones we hear about most.  Those who honor their commitment rarely receive the praise and thanks they deserve but let them make one mistake and they will be called to task immediately.  Those who wish to diminish Christianity jump at the opportunity to point fingers whenever they can.

   How should we, the laity, respond?  With love, support, and prayers.  For those who are faithful for sure, but also for those who fail in their ministry.  It is not up to us to judge them but to pray for them.  Only Christ will judge and at their judgement they will have to answer for their failings to the true Good Shepherd.

   On this Good Shepherd Sunday, let’s pray for the priest and pastors that they will serve the Lord and all His flock in the spirit of Christ, with love, and devotion, leading them always closer to God by word and example.  Let us also pray for an increase in the priesthood; that those called to the priesthood will respond with love and devotion.