Like Sheep Without a Shepherd

This meditation is based on a passage for April 25, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Mark 6:30-44

Reflection and Question:  That I have already considered versions of the feeding of the crowd three times (Nov. 6, 2009; Jan. 2, 2010; Mar. 16, 2010) testifies to the central place of this event in Christian faith. While Matthew uses the phrase in a different context (Mt 9:36), Mark is unique in applying the image of “sheep without a shepherd” here to the people who sought out Jesus. He shepherds the sheep by teaching and feeding. This serves as an example of what leaders in the church are to do. It is worth noting that judging is not indicated as a job of the shepherd. How do we shepherd the sheep now?

Prayer:   Jesus, You are the great shepherd of the sheep. Bring this image to life so that we, in our time, may teach and feed Your flock. Bless us with abundance for body and soul so that we, too, may be filled, and then may rise and praise Your Name. Amen.