A Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
On this Sunday, we often reflect on religious callings symbolized by the image of the Good Shepherd. Those who embrace vows within religious life make sacrifices for the well-being of the building of Christian community. This is also true of many in our Church and society, who make sacrifices in various aspects of life for the sake of others.
Answering one’s vocation is a personal response to the needs of humanity, driven by an inner motivation. Whether as a missionary or simply as a person dedicated to serving others, the core belief remains that, with Jesus, we are all brothers and sisters to those we encounter. Understanding our life’s calling provides us with meaning in our life.
We are all invited to love both God and our neighbours, even extending that love to our enemies. Today, we pray for clarity and strength in discerning our vocation in life.
We take a moment to honour and express gratitude for priests, religious and lay catechists who devote themselves to serving communities within the Church worldwide. Additionally, we remember and appreciate those who have made profound sacrifices in these roles, even giving their lives in service.
Christ Has No Body
Teresa of Avila (1515–1582)
Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
Compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are his body.
Christ has no body now but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
Photo by Patrick Schneider on Unsplash
Ronan Barry
