GNW CARING CIRCLE: JULY 10, 2012
I am the good shepherd, says the Lord, I know my sheep, and mine know me.
GOSPEL: MATTHEW 9:32-38
A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus,
and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke.
The crowds were amazed and said,
"Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel."
But the Pharisees said,
"He drives out demons by the prince of demons."
Jesus went around to all the towns and villages,
teaching in their synagogues,
proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom,
and curing every disease and illness.
At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them
because they were troubled and abandoned,
like sheep without a shepherd.
Then he said to his disciples,
"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;
so ask the master of the harvest
to send out laborers for his harvest."
* * * * *
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
In the midst of our busy-ness and activity, are we still able to "hear" the voice of our Good Shepherd?
* * * * *
REFLECTION:
From the book, "Good Morning... GOD" (by Pamela Steinke)
July 11 Entry
*text in purple added
"There must be priorities. The heart of man is a delicate thing. It is easily overloaded and unbalanced by the worries and cares and even the pleasures of life. I must come first; I must be allowed to weave Myself throughout the fabric of daily living. That is where I belong, threaded through the most intricate details of human existence, ever able to save and keep that which is given to Me. Waiting always to bring about that which is best in each life.
"Follow then, not at a distance, not reluctantly as a spoiled child, nor running on ahead -- but keeping in step with with Master (or Shepherd). Allow Me to take My proper place, one moment at a time. I must come first before all else that seeks to engage you. This is the way, the only way to know Me, to hear My voice, to understand My calling, to know and follow My guidance. Nothing less will do."
