1 Peter 5: 1-4
Beloved: Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it—not for sordid gain but eagerly. Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock. And when the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
True Shepherds
The image of a caring shepherd in today’s first reading reminded me of words from Pope Francis, in Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel):
“An evangelizing community gets involved by word and deed in people’s daily lives; it bridges distances, it is willing to abase itself if necessary, and it embraces human life, touching the suffering flesh of Christ in others. Evangelizers thus take on the ‘smell of the sheep’ and the sheep are willing to hear their voice. An evangelizing community is also supportive, standing by people at every step of the way, no matter how difficult or lengthy this may prove to be.”
Today we honor and celebrate our first pope, St. Peter, called by Jesus to shepherd the Church. Pope Francis reminds us that we are called to be shepherds, too, as part of a community that accompanies and embraces people in need. How are we called to be true shepherds to others today?
—Beth Franzosa is the Director of Adult Formation at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Prayer
Jesus, lead us and guide us to share the joy of your Gospel, taking on the smell of the sheep in true community as we give and receive support. Amen.
—Beth Franzosa
Pray with the Pope
The Holy Father’s Monthly Prayer Intentions Brought to you by Apostleship of Prayer the first Friday of each month.