In our short Gospel passage for today, we get a glimpse of Jesus as kind of a constant shepherd. One moment he’s shepherding his disciples to reflect on their experiences, and in the next moment he’s ministering to a needy flock of followers.
Our second reading from Ephesians reminds us that Christ is not only a shepherd; he is “our peace.” He is the way for any kind of ultimate harmony and reconciliation and unity.
This is especially timely to consider in light of the scary events of almost exactly a week ago – to the hour—when we had an assassination attempt on the former president. The motives of the shooter have not been revealed as of yet, but our climate of political and societal division, hatred and polarization doesn’t leave many people surprised that violence may now be part of this new not-normal. Violence is already there in the words fired back and forth between opponents.
So, how can Christ who is “our peace” become a positive force in such a climate, a source, even, of unity and reconciliation? From Christ, from his words and his example, we learn humility, patience, mercy, forgiveness and so much more. His way is enshrined in our Catholic social doctrine, where the sacredness and dignity of every human person is the most important principle.
Without losing our thirst for justice and peace, we can embrace listening and dialogue versus anger and demonizing. We can jump into all sorts of battles, not just political ones, with our hearts at peace, calm, and in self-control. We can build each other up, even with our differences. From Ephesians again today: “(Christ) came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near.” How do our lives show that we got the message of peace that he preached?