Daily Readings - Thu May 06 2021
2 Timothy
1In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge:2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction.3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
John
11"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.12The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it.13The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.14"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me--15just as the Father knows me and I know the Father--and I lay down my life for the sheep.16I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and 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.