Daily Catholic Mass Readings for May 6, 2020
First Reading: 2 Timothy 4.1-5
1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Psalm 96
1O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth.2Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.3Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.4For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.5For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.6Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.7Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.8Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.9O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.10Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.11Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.12Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice13Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Gospel: John 10.11-16
11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.12But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.13The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.15As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.16And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, 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.