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MY SHEEP HEARS MY VOICE, AND THEY FOLLOW ME
Good shepherd Sunday is designated as a World Day of Prayer for Vocation. Though are we called to pray daily for the leaders of our Church. But in this Good Shepherd Sunday we are called to offer special prayers for vocation to Priesthood and Religious life. To offer prayers for those who are already in the seminary and for those who are still discerning the voice of the Good shepherd. Jesus tells us that his sheep hears his voice, and can recognize and differentiate his voice from the so many voices and they will always follow him. Can you differentiate the voice of Jesus from the so many voices speaking in your heart? Sometimes to hear the Shepherd’s voice, recognize it and follow him requires reflections and prayers. Jesus used images and pictures that are familiar with the people to teach about the love and providential care of God for humanity. Jesus teaches us that he was sent into the world out of love and like a good shepherd he will lead those who listen to him and follow him back to God. The work of a good shepherd involves patience and great sacrifice. Sheep can be humble and gentle but there are those that sometimes may not listen to the shepherd and stray from the leadership of the shepherd. This kind of sheep make the work of the shepherd very challenging. The good shepherd looks for these sheep that go astray, patiently and compassionately bring them back to the fold. Jesus teaches us that he is the Good Shepherd who will leave the ninety-nine behind and search for the one that went astray to bring it back to the fold. Jesus tells us that he know his sheep, they will not perish and no one will take them out of his hand. This is great assurance that those who follow the Good Shepherd will be cared for and will be provided for. They will have nothing to fear because they will be protected from the wild beasts by his great and powerful presence. Jesus calls us also to be good shepherds by imitating his leadership qualities. Whatever leadership position you have you are called to listen to Jesus to help you as you care for those entrusted in your hand. Paul and Barnabas following the Good Shepherd were courageous to preach in Antioch in spite of the strong opposition and persecution. True courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to proceed despite the fear. Paul was totally convinced of his call by the Good Shepherd, the Christ, to bring the Gospel to those who have not yet heard of it. Despite hardship, he was filled with joy. As shepherd, it may involve too many sacrifice, but our true happiness lies in listening to Christ and following God’s will. As parents your work may involve too many challenges and sacrifice, which may sometimes not sufficiently appreciated, look up to Jesus who never abandon his sheep despite the challenges. Today we appreciate and thank the mothers both living and deceased. Though one may be able to choose his/her friends but no one can choose his/her mother. Many mothers like the Good Shepherd worked hard to teach, protect and provide the best for their children. Some of them sacrifice luxury for the good of those entrusted in their care. Every vocation to the priesthood come from the heart of God, but it passes through the heart of a mother. Many priest received their vocation through the faith and love of their mother. We pray for God’s blessing to all the good mothers. We pray for the mothers who lose a child and for the mothers who are now in glory.