We are not part time or Hired workers

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 4th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 10:11-18*

*First Reading - Acts 4:8-12*

*Second Reading - 1 Jn 3:1-2*

*We are not part time or Hired workers*

*he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep*

*1) The ways of hired or part time workers*

First of all they work for money. Returns are main intention of these workers 

They don't take the responsibility. They come and work and then they go back 

They are not much affected about the progress of the work they do. Since they get their pay they are interested in doing what they are asked for 

They are also present  only for few hours. Rest of the time they are out

*2) Shepherds work can't be part time*

Part time work or a hired worker is not meant for taking care of the sheep 

This is because, first of all there is a particular relationship between the sheep and Shepherd

This relationship is not meant for part time, rather it exists through out life 

This relationship also differs between a hired worker and also between the genuine shepherd

Therefore the shepherding work can't be a part time work or a work done through the hired persons.

*3) Shepherd and Sheep is a unique relationship*

In this relationship person is involved fully 

In this relationship emotions are involved 

In this relationship a special language of love, a unique caring voice and comforting gesture is involved 

In this relationship both the parties are able to recognise each other and one depends in the another 

In this relationship one desires the another and they would like to stay together always connected 

So this relationship is very unique which can't be maintained by a hired shepherd or a part time worker 

*4) Jesus is our Real Shepherd*

Jesus himself says that *I am the Good Shepherd* who cares, loves and protects His 

Sheep

Jesus is the real shepherd because He is not only ready to take care of the sheep, but even ready to lay down His life. 

Jesus is the real shepherd because the sheep is able to identify His voice and the sheep know Him and He knows His sheep 

*5) Am I a part time worker or hired worker?*

As we know God's work can't be done in part time work or through paid service 

First of all we are the Shepherds of our family. So in the family mission there can't be part time work or paid service. Such a family will not survive

Secondly we are the Shepherds to continue the mission of the Lord to build Gods kingdom here on this earth

This mission can be done only through the spirit of a good shepherd

Am I ready to play the role of a good shepherd?

*6) We have been chosen to become the Good Shepherds*

Every follower of Jesus is chosen by God to play the role of the Good Shepherd

The model of Jesus is the model of good shepherd. In which the sheep is more important than anything else 

Other centred spirituality is at the centre of good shepherd model 

Sharing, caring, sacrifice, risking ones life for another are some of the important aspects of Good Shepherd model 

*Is my life resembles the Good Shepherd model?*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*