Taken together, this Sunday’s readings point to some of the
most essential characteristics of the shepherd,
first, as the word applies to God, who has, in the Judeo-Christian tradition,
been both leader and companion to His flock, as well as to Jesus, who, in his
capacity as shepherd, gives us access in one Spirit to the Father.
Psalm 23 reminds us that God is our guide and our strength,
our source of nourishment and repose, who accompanies us through life even
when we experience suffering and pain. In
the midst of great difficulty, God is present to help so long as we remain
open, so long as we trust: I fear
no evil, for you are at my side. Our journey, as we walk in the dark valley, consists of encountering the infinite love
of God over and over, and allowing God to lead us through death to life, until
we are ready for perfect union with God in heaven.
Our readings from Jeremiah, Ephesians, and Mark add to this
portrait of the shepherd as both
leader and companion. Rejecting the unfaithful
king Zedekiah, Jeremiah speaks of a future leader who will do what is just and right, earning him the title, The Lord our justice, that is, source of
all that is life-giving. Paul’s letter
to the Ephesians refers to Jesus as our
peace, he who reconcilied both Jews and Gentiles because the Love that is
God is for all.
And in the Gospel, Jesus offers his followers all of the
above: guidance and strength (he began to teach them many things), nourishment
(those who had no opportunity even to
eat, he will soon feed with loaves and fishes), and, when possible, peaceful repose (Come away…
and rest a while). Most importantly,
he offers them love: his heart was moved with pity for them.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd, a compassionate companion on our journey in
whom we can place our complete trust.
(This reflection is based on notes from Fr. Pat's Thursday night Scripture class.)
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