Jesus said, “Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:1-10
Today I had the opportunity and joy to participate in the consecration of Miguelina Howell. She was made chief Shepherd of the diocese of western Massachusetts. Being a shepherd requires a clear focus, eyes opened to challenges and dangers, ability to provide sustenance, both spiritual and physical, and keeping the flock together. We as the followers of Jesus, Bishops priest, deacon, and lay people, are called to work together for the blessing of the people and the whole world. And we are called to trust in Jesus’s love for us and his tender daily care. In these days, when everything seems both dangerous and exhausting, we are invited to renew our commitment to the care of others, following Jesus every new day, and trusting we are protected always. Sometimes it’s a hard thing to do. On days like today, we are reminded of the goodness of the Lord, which blesses all people and gives us good and loving leaders always.
Gracious Creator, you shine your light and love the world
And promise to give us shepherds to guide our days.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.
We often find ourselves, confused alone, and misdirected
Yet you have promised to guide us even in our darkest times.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.
Too often we try to go it on our own and cry out to you
Although you are there with us each step of the way.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.
There is no shame in our needing you and one another
Despite our need to control, to push and to be in charge.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.
You are the great Shepherd of the sheep and you love us
Gently herding us to green verdant pastures of plenty.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.
Make us one flock with one shepherd in these days
So your love rains down again and blesses all.
Great Shepherd of the sheep, lead us and guide us along the way.Amen.
