I wonder what Jesus is thinking about our world today. We certainly are scattered and at times are harassed for our faith. The world bombards us with messages contrary to the word of God.
Who do we allow to shepherd us? Do we look to the Lord for guidance?
There are many good ministers and priests today who share the Good News of the Kingdom, but their voices are often silenced by those who would have us go the other way.
We were given the job of protecting our world by God in Genesis. Religious leaders tell us that we need to protect the environment and not be wasteful, but others tell us that progress is more important. I don't think that those who live with polluted air and undrinkable water would agree!
Again, justice for the poor is a major theme of both the Old and New Testaments as it exemplifies the law of love. But justice for whom? There are those who believe that some are more entitled to "justice" than others.
One example of this is the disproportionate numbers of the poor or those of color in the prison system in the United States. In other countries, the laws are in favor of men and do not protect the rights of women and girls.
At times, Scripture is even used to justify the actions of those who are in power.
Who are the shepherds? Where can we hear their voices?
Jesus sent out the apostles and disciples to help shepherd the people of his time. Now we have been sent by virtue of our Baptism to help shepherd the people of our time.
If we are to fulfill this responsibility, then we need to keep close to The Shepherd by listening to his voice and following him.
