The Good Shepherd − A Comforting Image
In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives us the wonderful image of the good shepherd. Jesus is echoing the 23rd Psalm: “The Lord is my shepherd.” I find this image of Jesus to be very consoling and protective. A good shepherd knows his sheep and calls each by name. Jesus calls us by our baptismal name and he looks after each one of us, even when we stray and get lost. The good shepherd goes and looks for his lost sheep and when we are lost, Jesus will do exactly the same. He’ll look for us and carry us back home to safety. Jesus never gives up on us, just as a good shepherd will not forget about his sheep who wander off and get lost. In the 23rd Psalm, we read: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” Frequently we will walk in that dark valley and we will really need the guidance and protection of our good shepherd, Jesus. Let us thank God that Jesus is caring for each one of us as his very special and loved child. With Jesus, we have nothing ever to fear.
Peace,
Fr. John Maxwell
P.S. Just a personal note. For the first two weeks of May, I will be on vacation with Fr. Bob Baden and Fr. Pat Stephenson. We are going to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands for some R & R. Our parish is in very capable hands with Fr. Ray, Fr. Hugo and our competent staff. All is well. Keep me in your prayers.
