Good Shepherd Sunday

05-02-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi

Dear Friends,

This Fourth Sunday of Easter is dedicated as Good Shepherd Sunday, also known as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. In addition to our continuous prayers for the end to the COVID-19 pandemic, this weekend the Church invites us to pray for vocations and in particular, for an increase in vocations to the Priesthood and Consecrated Life.

Powerful leaders generally have authoritative titles such as Emperor, King, Commander in Chief, President, etc., to demonstrate the magnitude of their power. However, Jesus chose to humbly identify himself as a shepherd. He does this to reveal to us the depth of God’s tender love and care for us. Following Jesus’ footsteps, the Church today calls priests in charge of parishes as pastors, which is a direct translation of the word, “shepherd” in Latin. Pastors are called to model their lives after Jesus and to be servant leaders rather than managers, CEOs or supervisors. The call to lead with a loving and caring heart also applies to parents and every Christian in a leadership position.

In the Gospel today, Jesus identified himself not just as a shepherd but as a good shepherd who is willing to sacrifice his life for his sheep. He contrasted this with a selfish shepherd who has no love for the sheep and easily abandons the sheep in times of danger. Reflecting with this Gospel passage, let us ask ourselves, “Do we have a sacrificial love for each other in our families?” “Are we willing to support and protect each other, especially in times of hardship and crisis like we find ourselves in right now?” When we give and receive unwavering love from our families, friends and the community, we develop the strength and unity needed to withstand any “wolf” that may come our way. A sacrificial love enables us to stand with and for our loved ones and not abandon them in the face of danger. May Jesus strengthen your love and your resolve to remain faithful to your family, friends, your church community and God to the end.

Thank you and remain blessed,

Fr. James

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