CNA Daily News


 

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time



We all have heard Jesus' call to Peter, "Feed my sheep." And subconsciously each of us breathes a sigh of relief that the call was not for us. Jesus obviously meant just Peter, not the other disciples, right? A comfortable but inaccurate idea. Each of us is called to be a shepherd in some way. A parent is a shepherd to their child, a teacher to a student, a priest to a parishioner. Friends can shepherd each other through trying times. As Christians, we are called to love even our enemies, to be Jesus to this world. So instead of "passing the crook", let's prayerfully shoulder the responsibility of the lambs God sets in our path each day. As Peter watched Jesus to learn how a shepherd cares for His flock, we can learn from the shepherds in our life. We read of Jesus in the Word, of the saints of history or those still here on earth. These signposts point us in the right direction; so that we can grow into the shepherds, God needs whatever the size or content of our flock. Jesus called Peter to feed His sheep three times. How many times has He called you?

Today's Gospel

  • Jn 15:9-11
    9: As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. 10: If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11: These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full....

Saint of the Day

  • St. Elizabeth of Portugal
    St. Elisabeth of Portugal is known as a great peacemaker. She was actually born in Aragon, Spain, in 1271, the daughter of King Pedro III. Her great aunt was St. Elizabeth of Hungary, after whom she was named. She grew up in a very pious home, with daily mass and the Liturgy of the Hours. At the age...