John’s Gospel today introduces us to the theme of the “Good Shepherd.” In this parable, Jesus uses a shepherd tending to his sheep to illustrate what it means to be His disciple. Jesus is the gate by which the shepherd goes to the penned-up sheep and then leads them out to life giving pasture. Jesus is the model shepherd who both knows his sheep by name and is willing to save them by laying down his life to protect them. False shepherds seek to lead the sheep astray and destroy them, whereas Jesus (the Good Shepherd) comes to give them life in abundance. The parable tells us that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows His sheep by name. This is to reassure us that though we are all part of His universal Church we are also known to Him as unique individuals. He made us just as we are and loves each of us dearly. He died for our individual sins as well as the sins of all humanity. The parable also says that Jesus is the “gate” by which to enter His sheepfold. The gate represents protection from “thieves and robbers” or any evil. Salvation and eternal life will only come to those who enter through Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Today’s reading from the letter of Saint Peter summarizes this message best: “By his wounds you have been healed. For you had gone astray like sheep, but you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.” Are we staying close to our Guardian Shepherd? Or are we wandering aimlessly through life searching for “greener pastures” further and further from His loving sight and protection? Reflection by parishioner, Dale Gerber