Staying Close to our Shepherd

Sister Christina reflects on the Biblical image of the Good Shepherd and shares about drawing close to Him through scriptural prayer.

One of the most poignant images for Our Lord in Scripture, for me, is that of the Good Shepherd. This past Sunday, we are given it again in the Gospel reading from John 10, as is customary on the Fourth Sunday of Easter (Good Shepherd Sunday).

Over the centuries, many artists have depicted the scene of Christ the Good Shepherd. Often, He is holding a little lamb close. It is such a tender image, inviting us to draw close in trust. Such depictions often speak to me, reminding me of His love and care.

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As women and mothers (spiritual and/or physical), our days are often filled with caring for the needs of others and being there for them. These readings remind us to turn to the One who is always here for us.

Today, this invitation to peaceful trust in Him is echoed in another passage from John’s Gospel, as Jesus urges His first followers and us as well:

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.” (John 14:1)

He goes on to assure us that He has gone to prepare a place for us in His Father’s house.

What tender words!

I have found other passages in the Scriptures that encourage me to reach out in trust. During this Easter season, I have found myself trying to draw near to Our Lord, too, seeking to experience this closeness.

Along with the Good Shepherd passage, stories about the women who meet Jesus as they are running from the tomb, the anointing at Bethany, and others involving close contact with the Lord can be powerful avenues for encountering Jesus.

In the past 15 years or so, there has been a resurgence in the practice of Lectio Divina, which you may very well be familiar with. I don’t know if you have a daily habit of praying with Scripture, but I would strongly encourage you to try it. I use a simple approach as outlined in my article on Praying with the Scriptures.

You may find yourself standing in the place of one of the figures in the Gospel, and meeting Jesus in a beautiful way.

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I pray that you and I, during the remainder of this Easter season, may grow in our relationship with the Risen Lord, relying on Him in the details of our lives, be they big or small.

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