THE GOOD SHEPHERD IS ALWAYS WITH US

David Popiashvili (Dem. Republic of Georgia)

Sunday is one of my favorite Sundays of the year. I am always reminded what it is to be shepherdess to the sheep entrusted to me.

As I get older, I still love my sheep, but must entrust their care to the interns who come to help with daily chores. Fortunately, the past two years the "neo- shepherds" have been wonderful. This year's lambs follow them around like dogs.  And while I educate the interns and other helpers in the fine art of shepherding, I no longer am able to daily go down to the field and handle the lambs and ewes.  The more the lambs are handled the easier is their care when they get older, so this daily contact is important. 

In days not too long ago, even in our own country, a shepherd would lead his sheep to the best pastures that he could find, while he kept close watch over them to protect them. 

The good shepherds loved their flocks so much that they would put their lives in danger for their sheep, especially when one went astray. 

Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, gave His life for us and watches over us especially in these modern times so filled with danger. He laid down His life for us and now He leads us to spiritual nourishment which we daily receive in the Eucharist.  

Lost Sheep -Nikola Saric- Serbia

Now Christ, our Paschal Lamb, is slain

the Lamb of God that knows no stain,

the true Oblation offered here,

our own unleavened Bread sincere….

We pray Thee, King with glory decked,

in this our Paschal joy, protect

from all that death would fain effect

Thy ransomed flock, Thine own elect.

                   

          Hymn of Easter Vespers

  Let us rejoice in our GOOD SHEPHERD!.