John’s Gospel today introduces us to the theme of the “Good Shepherd.” The Good Shepherd is, of course, a metaphor for Jesus. Remember that throughout the Old Testament, God was identified as the shepherd of Israel, in contrast to Israel’s unfaithful leaders who were “bad” shepherds of their people. Ordinary workers have no real concern for the sheep and will abandon them when wolves threaten. But Jesus tells us that He is the Good Shepherd who will lay down His life for His sheep. Jesus is teaching His disciples about the very special relationship He has with each of us. Jesus cares for us just as the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep. Then the story goes even deeper. Jesus reveals that He and the Father are one: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, is not just a human being but almighty God. He will never abandon His sheep. He knows all the sheep in the fold, and they know Him. There are those who are not yet in the fold but these too He must lead. Someday there will be “one flock, one shepherd.” Finally, Jesus reveals that in accordance with the Father’s will, He will “lay down my life in order to take it up again.” In this brief reading we hear of God’s loving care and the shepherding of his people. This echoes the way in the Old Testament He chose and led the Israelites in their journey from slavery to the promised land. God has sent His only begotten Son to lead and care for each of us as our “Good Shepherd.” Christ revealed His divinity by giving a glimpse of what lies ahead…His death freely accepted for our redemption and His rising to open a path to eternal life. The big question is how do we respond to this loving Shepherd in our lives who wants salvation for all of us? Do we stay close to Him in the Mass and sacraments? Do we listen for His voice at all times and allow Him to lead us? Or do we stubbornly insist on being in control of our own life and the path we will follow? And as we ponder this question, may we always remember from Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack.” (Ps 23:1)