Reflection for May 3, 2020

The Good Shepherd is with us wherever we are called 

by Sister Lynne Marie Simonich

For Sunday's World Day of Prayer for Vocations, Pope Francis tells us: “Dear friends, on this day in particular, I ask the Church to continue to promote vocations. May she touch the hearts of the faithful and enable each of them to discover with gratitude God’s call in their lives, to find courage to say 'yes' to God, to overcome all weariness through faith in Christ, and to make of their lives a song of praise for God, for their brothers and sisters, and for the whole world. May the Virgin Mary accompany us and intercede for us.” (Click here for Pope’s entire message.)

This day of prayer for vocations falls on Good Shepherd Sunday and is a good time to reflect on the care Jesus has for each one of us. In our Gospel for this Sunday, Jesus tells us that shepherds name their sheep and call them by name. The sheep recognize only their shepherd’s voice and will not follow anyone else. Shepherds will risk their lives to protect their sheep. They lead their flock to pastures and life-giving water. They make sure the sheep are safe at night and protected from wolves or strangers. What a comforting image for all of us.

What does the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd say to you in your life?

Pray the 23rd Psalm slowly and remember that Jesus is our Good Shepherd.

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack.
In green pastures he makes me lie down;
to still waters he leads me, he restores my soul.

He guides me along right paths for the sake of his name.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.

You set a table before me in front of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of the Lord for endless days.

(Psalm 23 from http://www.usccb.org/bible/psalms/23)