The best title ever attributed to God by a humble shepherd David, reveals the duties and responsibilities involved in the profession, for he himself was tending his father’s flock when vocation came from God through His prophet Samuel to lead God’ chosen flock Israel; hence he composed, “The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need” (Ps 23:1). One of the most demanding task is that of the shepherd; tending, leading, protecting, finding water and grass, and the list goes on. Having done these to his flock, David desired the same from God; hence he claimed Him as his shepherd. When He was on earth, Jesus proudly announced His life and mission through this image, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep” (Jn 10:11). As the time came for Him, after completing His saving mission on earth, Christ shifted the duty of leading His flock to the Holy Spirit. I wonder, since the Spirit took over the duty of leading, if He could also be addressed as the Shepherd, “But whenever The Spirit of The Truth comes, he will lead you into the whole truth, for he will not speak of his own will, but he shall speak whatever he shall hear and he shall reveal the future to you” (Jn 16:13). Let’s submit ourselves to this triune God, who remains our shepherd all through our lives. 

Abba, thank You for being our Shepherd, and saving us by sending Your Son, our Good Shepherd. Let Your Spirit shepherd us all the days of our lives in safety and protection. In Jesus’ Most Holy Name, Amen.