Bad shepherds

Today’s first reading (Ezekiel 34:1-11) speaks powerfully against bad spiritual shepherds: who enjoy the benefits of their position but fail to care for the flock or to seek out lost sheep.

This prophecy needs to be heeded well by anyone charged with pastoral ministry. It may even strike them with terror.

This prophecy also needs to be heeded by you and me.

How often do we enjoy the blessings of the Church and membership within it and yet fail to do our part?

How often do we fail to reach out lost sheep? How often do our words and actions break down the flock or seek to pull it in our own direction?

Lord Jesus Christ, son of the living God, be merciful to me – a sinner.

May all of us, each in the ways given us by God, care for God’s sheep.