When we read scripture, we often come across images or messages that can take some time to ‘digest,’ understand, or work through. We might need to read the words and verses several times in order to pray with them and reflect on how they are meant for us at that moment. But this Sunday, as we continue to rejoice in this current Easter season, we get an uncomplicated (yet powerful) image and message in the Gospel of the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:11-18). Though we are already very familiar with the comforting words “I am the Good Shepherd” and “I know mine and mine know me,” I invite you to spend some time in prayer with this image, this idea of the Good Shepherd, and what it means to you. Where and when have we felt this Good Shepherd leading us? How do we continue to make room in our hearts, so we are walking with him? Are we listening for his voice above the many distracting sounds we hear?
Though we are obviously in Easter, I picture the nativity scene figure I have of a shepherd tenderly carrying a sheep across his shoulders. In the context of the Good Shepherd, I wonder why the sheep needed to be carried. Maybe the sheep had traveled too far away on its own. Maybe it was injured in some way and needed help. Maybe it was tired and couldn’t keep up with the flock. In reflection, I find that I have been all those things: When I’ve doubted and not trusted, I’ve traveled too far from God. When I’ve been hurt, I’ve turned away. When I’m tired from frustration or despair, I’ve separated myself. This reading is such a good reminder to trust and follow the Good Shepherd where he leads me. Sheep trust their shepherd – they trust him to keep them safe, to heal them when they are hurt, and to rescue them when they have lost their way. They are nourished, protected, and cared for when they are with their shepherd, and each one of them is cherished. We know these same characteristics about our own Good Shepherd, and this is a joyful time of renewal to recognize we are in his loving care all the time.
Not long ago on Good Friday, we heard the words from the Isaiah (53:6), “We had all gone astray like sheep, each following his own way.” Jesus has risen, so we no longer go astray. Our way is with our shepherd. His words “I know mine and mine know me” are all we need to know that our shepherd desires us to seek and follow him, to listen for his voice, and to be carried tenderly by his love.
Journeying to Grace 