Jesus states that He is both the gate to the sheepfold and the Shepherd (Jn. 10:1-10). As the gate, our Lord grants salvation. As the Shepherd, He leads us into green pastures and beside still waters (Ps. 23). Being both gate and Shepherd, it is He who grants access to heaven while simultaneously provides for our needs on earth.
When the gate is open, the Shepherd walks in front of the sheep. The sheep do not lead, but follow the voice and person of the Shepherd. This abandonment by the sheep to the Shepherd, is based on their experience of being protected. They habitually go where he goes. Do we show this same trust in our Shepherd, and allow Him to lead?
Good Shepherd, lead us in your ways. May we, Your sheep, have enough love, trust and humility to follow You, knowing that You will lead us all into eternal life. Amen.
Blessings,
Fr. Howie
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