Readings: Acts 4:8-12. 1Jn 3:1-2. Jn 10:11-18
In religious literature, people are sometimes figuratively referred to as sheep. Whether this imagery is aptly used today, or whether it should be extended even into politics and social life may not be up to debate (if we understand the particular genres used). One element that comes out, though, is that ultimately, God is the chief shepherd over his people. No matter their skin colour, size, breed, sex, or food preference, they all have one shepherd.
Curiously, even those who espouse such application of language may not necessarily believe in unity (as read from our actions). To us, all sheep should have just one fold. We can’t stand sheep in other folds. But what if the shepherd willed that his sheep belong to different folds temporarily? What if he intends one fold only ultimately? Should the sheep butt their fellow sheep just because they differ in characteristics or sheepfold?
May Jesus Christ, the good shepherd, gather us into His Love. May we spread this love to as many people as possible.