Nature shows of television can be fascinating. Last week I saw one about the hunting abilities of a particular breed of big cat. Although it is a bit unnerving to watch the animal as it isolates a young antelope or gazelle for its next meal, there are important lessons for all. Cunning and fast, the cat waits for the perfect moment before swooping in for the kill. Sometimes the younger and smaller animal, sensing danger, is able to retreat to the safety of the herd and the cat slinks away in search of another more vulnerable target.
Jesus is talking about much the same situation in the today's gospel. When a sheep, a naturally communal animal, drifts away from the herd, it is not only vulnerable, it loses a sense of who it is. Sheep herders tell us that an isolated sheep might stop drinking and eating, threatening its very life. Unless the sheep is led back to the herd it risks injury and death. That is why Jesus assures his listeners that he is a good shepherd, especially when those listening to him feel lost, troubled or abandoned. Allowing the Lord to find us when we are lost heals.
Today, stop and let Jesus, the Good Shepherd, find you.
What do you do when you feel lost and troubled?
Jesus is talking about much the same situation in the today's gospel. When a sheep, a naturally communal animal, drifts away from the herd, it is not only vulnerable, it loses a sense of who it is. Sheep herders tell us that an isolated sheep might stop drinking and eating, threatening its very life. Unless the sheep is led back to the herd it risks injury and death. That is why Jesus assures his listeners that he is a good shepherd, especially when those listening to him feel lost, troubled or abandoned. Allowing the Lord to find us when we are lost heals.
Today, stop and let Jesus, the Good Shepherd, find you.
What do you do when you feel lost and troubled?
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