Not all who heard Jesus accepted His words or were willing to understand the message

Not all who heard Jesus accepted His words or were willing to understand the message. This led to conflict, some refusing to listen any longer and others learning to follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd. 

Our patron, Saint Francis recognized that being a shepherd meant being at peace rather than in conflict—to be a peacemaker. Just as the sheep need green meadows and still waters to exist, so do all creatures need the essentials of life. Conflicts most often arise when there is a real or even a perceived threat. For Saint Francis, the sharing of food, of clothing, of shelter and all good things, especially with those in most need, was fundamental for not only avoiding conflict but keeping peace.

To be a brother or a sister to one another in Christ requires more than words; actions are necessary if conflict is to be resolved. Do I recognize the needs of others and the threats they experience? Am I aware of the cause of conflicts in my life and do I work at being a peacemaker? What opportunities do I have for being a good shepherd to my family, to my community, to my nation? 

As our boys and girls receive their First Holy Communion this weekend and others receive the Sacrament of Confirmation next Saturday, let us all turn closer to Jesus, the Good Shepherd.  May He lead us to peace:  peace in our hearts, peace in our homes, peace in our world.

Fr. Mark Zacker

Pastor