A Shepherd

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Nothing is quite as jarring as smoke detectors chirping in the middle of the night. That high-pitched reminder—delivered just as you drift into a peaceful sleep—is like fingernails on a chalkboard. It doesn’t warn of fire. It simply scolds you: You waited too long to change the batteries.

We finally replaced all the smoke detectors in our home. They were the originals, and long overdue for an upgrade. Since climbing a ten-foot ladder isn’t my cup of tea (I prefer mine steeped with a bit of honey), I called in a handyman to do the job.

We learn a lot from conversing with people. However, we learn more from listening. While the handyman worked, we struck up a conversation. He told me about his uncle, who was near and dear to him; his uncle was his shepherd.

What it Means to be a Shepherd

“A shepherd? I asked, surprised. “You don’t often hear people refer to someone as a shepherd,” he continued, “my uncle was always there for me, especially when I was young and not always making the best choices. He was a person who always made time for me. I was special to him.” “You are very blessed,” I replied.

That word—shepherd— lingered with me long after the handyman left. It was the first time I heard anyone refer to a loved one as a shepherd. In the Christian tradition, it’s a familiar word. Many know Psalm 23 by heart. “The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want…” In the church, we refer to pastors as shepherds who guide and tend their flocks. And, we call Jesus the Good Shepherd because He lays down His life for His sheep. 

A good shepherd is kind, gentle, patient, brave, and selfless. Sheep, on the other hand, are pretty high maintenance. They wander, get distracted, and need protection and guidance. Sound familiar? I can certainly relate. They also require shearing to keep them healthy. Shearing removes the excess wool and prevents it from being weighed down. Spiritually, we all accumulate our version of “wool”—the worries, distractions, hurts, unforgiveness, and burdens that cling to us over time. Shearing isn’t always comfortable, but when done by the gentle hands of the Good Shepherd, it’s freeing.

When we allow ourselves to be shepherded—truly led, cared for, and provided for, in other words, we live surrendered—we understand what it means to shepherd others. We learn compassion, patience, and presence. 

A New Shepherd

This past week, the Catholic Church received a new shepherd: Pope Leo XIV. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Church. I don’t know much about him. But I’ve seen his smile, and something about it tells me he’s spent time lingering with Jesus.

The pope’s role—servant leader to over a billion people—is a responsibility I can hardly imagine. It is, no doubt, a spiritual cross. And yet, the same Good Shepherd who tends to each of us also walks with him.

Whether we lead a household, a business, or a global Church, we all need shepherding. And perhaps, in unexpected conversations and late-night smoke alarms, we’re reminded that our Heavenly Father is always finding ways to draw us near, comfort us, and guide us to green pastures and still waters.

Reflection

What “extra wool” (burdens, distractions, or habits) might God be inviting you to shed?

Who has shown up in your life as a quiet shepherd, guiding you back to safety, truth, or healing?