As a shepherd guards his flock

Today's readings continuously brought me back to my role, our role as a shepherd for the “flocks” in our own lives. These "flocks" may be our own children, our students, a friend heading down a dangerous path, a teammate who needs encouragement, or a colleague who is struggling in their personal life. It might mean shepherding a committee, a corporation, or for some, even an entire city, state, or country. Every day we have the opportunity to be a shepherd to the "flocks" the Lord has placed in our lives.

When our sons were younger they would get upset when my husband or I disciplined them... or even when we required something of them. I remember telling them that “if it’s something that involves your safety or your discipline, that is our job.” As young men, they did not exactly like or understand this, but we knew it was part of being a parent - we were called to lead, protect... be a shepherd for them. Nevertheless, it is never easy to lead by saying "no" instead of "yes".

It was easier when they were young because I could take them by the hand, I could pick them up and carry them. Young children, though perhaps not in the moment, are seemingly more easy to shepherd. In contrast, shepherding an elderly parent or someone with an addiction can be far more difficult, far more frustrating. Forgiving and continuing to shepherd someone who has sinned against you is even more difficult. However, our model Jesus never gave up when one of His flock strayed and He desires for us to not give up either.

In today's responsorial psalm we hear: “The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.” The primary responsibility for a shepherd is to try and protect his sheep from harm. As any parent will tell you, they go to great lengths to do this with their children. Teachers seek to protect their students, coaches their players. Being a good shepherd means trying to protect others from harm, working to show them the way, and preventing them, as best we can, from getting lost or making irreparable mistakes. This effort requires selflessness on our part, a putting of another’s needs before our own. At times, we might not be aware that one of our own flock has wandered off or is lost. At times, we may have tried everything we could to protect, guide, and shelter our flock from mistakes... but a member of the flock still wanders off. However, no matter how far away this member gets, Jesus wants us to look for them... to never give up until they return to the flock, where they are safe and loved.

Jesus's ministry and public works led to more and more people gathering around Him, following Him. The numbers of people in His flock grew, and continued to grow long after His death. And even now, He never gives up on any of the flock, no matter how far away they wander.

God is the ultimate shepherd, and we are all part of His flock. Just as He protects us with the promise of eternal life, it is our responsibility to protect and guide the people in our lives, the young men we educate at Jesuit Dallas, our own children, and even those we encounter on a daily basis. As we shepherd them, they in turn will shepherd others and lead their own flocks in the direction of the Lord.

Author: Cindy Young, Jesuit Dallas Staff