“Feeding
the Flock” by Melanie Rigney (@melanierigney)
Like a shepherd, he feeds his flock; in his arms, he gathers
the lambs, Carrying them in his bosom, leading the ewes with care. (Isaiah
40:11)
The Lord, our God, comes with
power. (Isaiah 40:10ab)
“In just the same way,
it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be
lost." (Luke 18:14)
Piety
Jesus, bless all those who shepherd,
unknowingly or unknowingly.
Study
It was fourteen years ago this month
that I first met Karen, though I don’t remember hearing her name at the time. I
was close to coming back to the Church after decades away, and my pastor had
told me to attend the parish evening Advent retreats. Karen was in my group the
first night. She talked about feeling stressed and overworked—but still praying
in the car with her son and daughter as she drove them to school. I was impressed
that a working woman close to my age, with a husband and kids to boot, still
managed to find moments of grace in her busy day. It gave me hope.
About a year later, we ended up in
the same prayer group. And ever since then, our paths have intersected in ways
large and small. Every Advent, we’re among the organizers of a large, predawn
breakfast at our old parish. We’ve been in Bible studies together. I hope I’ve
been a listening ear in some of her times of trouble. I appreciate that
whatever idea the Lord puts into my head for a book or event, Karen lends her
support.
Fourteen years later, I’m still
learning from Karen’s strength, bravery, and hospitality. She’s still giving me
hope—and isn’t that what a true shepherd does?
Action
Gather up a lamb in danger of being
lost.
Image credit: Uce from Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/photos/jesus-christ-good-shepherd-religion-1561637/
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