Daily Readings - Thu May 06 2021
2 Timothy
1I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:2preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.3For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,4and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.5As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
John
11I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.12He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.13He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.14I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me,15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.16And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the profound responsibilities and qualities of true leadership. The Second Letter to Timothy urges us to remain steadfast in our mission, preaching the Word with urgency and patience, even when it is challenging. This passage emphasizes the importance of perseverance and fidelity in our calling, much like a shepherd tending to his flock with care and dedication.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus presents Himself as the Good Shepherd, who selflessly lays down His life for His sheep. This image contrasts sharply with the hired hand who abandons the flock in times of danger. Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd underscores His deep connection with His followers, knowing them as the Father knows Him. This metaphor extends to include all who will hear His voice, uniting them into one flock under His guidance.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own roles as leaders and followers. Whether in formal ministries or everyday interactions, we are called to embody the qualities of the Good Shepherd—caring, selfless, and dedicated. As we navigate our lives, let us strive to lead with compassion and integrity, trusting in God's grace to fulfill our calling. In doing so, we not only honor our responsibilities but also draw closer to the heart of Christ, the ultimate Good Shepherd.