LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF THE SHEPHERD

 “SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER”

Daily Spiritual Reflections

6th February 2021

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SATURDAY, MEMORIAL OF SS. PAUL MIKI AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS

Heb 13:15-17,20-21

Ps 23:1-6

Mk 6: 30-34

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LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF THE SHEPHERD

At that time, “the apostles rejoined Jesus and told him all they had done and taught. And he said to them, ‘Come away to some lonely place all by yourselves and rest for a while.’” These verses show how Jesus formed his disciples. He was not concerned only with their work and ministry, but also with their rest. He invited them to go to a lonely place so as to be able to rest and review what they had done. Pausing in life to give us time for self-reflection and an examination of conscience greatly benefits our growth in spiritual life and in reorienting ourselves to God’s plan and mission for us. 

The people noticed that Jesus had gone to the other side of the lake, and they followed him by foot, to the other shore. “So, as he stepped ashore, he saw a large crowd… (and taking pity on them) he began to teach them at some length.” Seeing that crowd gathered there yearning for him, Jesus felt compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. He cast aside his own need for rest and began to teach them. In becoming aware that the people have no shepherd, Jesus immediately took it upon himself to be their shepherd. In our journey of life, God often and unexpectedly puts before us people in need – of a kind gesture, of a comforting word, of a patient listening. We must be ready to put aside our plans and personal time to be God’s instrument of compassion and love. 

Jesus began to teach the crowds many things. To teach is not only a question of presenting doctrines and counsels. Jesus taught, not only in words, but through his gestures and his way of relating with the people as well. The content of his message was never separated from his person. The call to evangelization that we have all received, starts with a determined effort of transformation of our own attitudes; it is a call to become the message before we proclaim it.

Response: The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

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