Meeting the Good Shepherd Through Your Child

Sunday's Gospel about the Good Shepherd lends itself to thinking about parenting from the shepherd's perspective. Shepherds live with their sheep and so being together gives parents the opportunity to know their children very well. Each person in a family has a unique disposition and temperament.

As parents are "shepherding" their children through the uncertain time of social distancing due to Covid 19, we become like the shepherd to our children in attending to their needs and concerns with a new intentionality.

In the parable, we realize that Jesus wants us to know that He shepherd's us with God's loving care. Parents are that loving Shepherd to their children. Parenting is a very holy work that parents are involved in daily. Jesus is with us to nurture, guide, and protect. The voice that we "hear" manifests itself as the caring voice inside us. It may come through others with whom we share our concerns or through those we rely on for sound parenting support.

To "hear" the voice of the Shepherd Jesus, TURN TO HIM in a quiet moment when a break in active parenting is possible. PAY ATTENTION to how the Shepherd Jesus might be speaking to you. BE PRESENT to how much you love your children and want the best for them and know that is what Jesus desires for you, as well.

EVERY ACT OF PARENTING OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD.

Comments

Ave Maria by Hauser

When my daughter was engaged to be married, I took voice lessons so that I could sing the Ava Maria at her wedding in Italy. While th at did not happen (long story, lol), one of my very favorite songs of all time is the Ava Maria. May you experience a moment of Heaven listening to it now, featuring the famous cellist, Hauser.

Earth Day Prayer Ideas

Prayer of Gratitude for the Earth Canticle of the Sun , by Marty Haugen Call to Prayer God of all creation we gather together to praise you and all of your creation. May we be aware of the gifts that you have given us in the world and in each other. We pray in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen + Reading and Response Psalm 104: 1, 24, 29-30, 31, 34 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD, my God, you are great indeed! How manifold are your works, O Lord! the earth is full of your creature’s R. L ord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth. May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD be glad in his works! Pleasing to him be my theme; I will be glad in the LORD. R. L ord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth. If you take away their breath, they perish and return to their dust. When you send forth your spirit, they are created...

Walking with Psalms

"The heaven's declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Psalm 19:1 Whether your family includes you and your spouse, young or young adult children, or just you and a fur child, getting outside to enjoy creation is a wonderful activity to do as a family! You may never have noticed this, but the Psalms are filled with verses that give praise and thanks for creation! Next time you are out for a walk, hike, bike ride or run try using the Psalms to make it a holy experience! You can use these steps! 1. Find a Psalm, or pick from the below list: 2. During your walk or other activity, reflect upon the following: Amen!

Search This Blog