Daily Readings - Wed May 06 2020
2 Timothy
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.
John
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.