This image of Christ sitting at the gate has always remained with me. The shepherd would lay across the enclosure so as to protect the flock gathered within it. He would not allow anything or anyone who did not belong to enter. The shepherd, literally, lays down his life in order to protect his flock. This is precisely what Christ has done for His flock. He laid down His life for our protection and salvation. We are extremely blessed for God loves us that much. In the First Letter of St. Peter read at the daily Mass this past week for the feast of St. Mark, we read: “Cast all your worries upon Him because He cares for you.” Let us be grateful that we have such a Good Shepherd.
Faithfully Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne