Daily Readings - Wed May 06 2020
2 Timothy
1I testify before God, and before Jesus Christ, who shall judge the living and the dead through his return and his kingdom2that you should preach the word urgently, in season and out of season: reprove, entreat, rebuke, with all patience and doctrine3For there shall be a time when they will not endure sound doctrine, but instead, according to their own desires, they will gather to themselves teachers, with itching ears4and certainly, they will turn their hearing away from the truth, and they will be turned toward fables5But as for you, truly, be vigilant, laboring in all things. Do the work of an Evangelist, fulfilling your ministry. Show self-restraint
John
11I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd gives his life for his sheep12But the hired hand, and whoever is not a shepherd, to whom the sheep do not belong, he sees the wolf approaching, and he departs from the sheep and flees. And the wolf ravages and scatters the sheep13And the hired hand flees, because he is a hired hand and there is no concern for the sheep within him14I am the good Shepherd, and I know my own, and my own know me15just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for my sheep16And I have other sheep that are not of this fold, and I must lead them. They shall hear my voice, and there shall be one sheepfold and one shepherd
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages about leadership and care. The first reading from 2 Timothy urges Timothy to be a diligent and faithful preacher, enduring in his ministry despite challenges. It serves as a call to perseverance and integrity in spreading God's word. The Gospel from John presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who selflessly lays down His life for His sheep, contrasting with the hired hand who abandons his flock in danger. Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd underscores His deep care and sacrifice for His followers.
These readings are deeply connected, as both emphasize the essence of true leadership. Paul's exhortation to Timothy reflects the characteristics of the Good Shepherd, highlighting the importance of dedication and genuine concern for others. Jesus' example in the Gospel serves as the pinnacle of leadership, illustrating that true leaders prioritize the well-being of those they serve over personal gain.
In our daily lives, these teachings encourage us to embrace our roles as shepherds in our own circles. Whether in family, community, or workplace, we are called to lead with compassion and integrity. The moral lesson here is one of faithfulness and self-sacrifice. Just as Jesus cares for His sheep, we should strive to care for others, guiding them with patience and truth. Let us reflect on how we can embody these qualities, ensuring our actions and decisions align with the love and dedication exemplified by the Good Shepherd.