In Luke, we read of the shepherd who leaves behind the other sheep to search for the one that is lost. It is a story of Christ’s intense desire to show us mercy.
In John, we read of the shepherd and the gatekeeper who guard the sheep and lead the flock forth. It is a story of Christ’s presence in the Church, protecting us and leading us into mission.
I need to hear His voice. But how easy it is for my attention to wander! Like a sheep who follows but becomes distracted along the way, I stop listening for the sound of the Shepherd’s voice. So many other voices compete for my attention.
I need to be drawn back by His Voice. It is the Voice that calls my name.
—Fr. Robert Flack, S.J. is a retreat director at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House, Barrington IL.