I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Today is called Good Shepherd Sunday, and, appropriately, this day is also the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Today, the Church calls us to reflect on the meaning of God’s call for each of us and to pray for generous respondents God’s personal call (vocation), to the priesthood, the diaconate, and the consecrated life, because the entire Christian community shares the responsibility for fostering vocations. Both the Old and New Testaments use the image of a Shepherd and His flock to describe the unique relationship of God with Israel and Christ with Christians.
In the tradition of Israel, the kings were considered to be the shepherds. They had the obligation to lead the Israel safe and secure. Unfortunately, the kings became selfish to serve themselves and their families at the cost of the people. God promised the people of Israel that he will not submit his sheep in the hands of the earthly shepherds. He said that he will be their shepherd. In this way, Jesus said ‘I am the good shepherd’. Jesus invites all to be with Him placing the trust and confidence in Him.
Liturgical materials for the Fourth Sunday of Easter.
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