his sermon explores the striking contrast between Herod the tetrarch and Jesus Christ in Matthew 14:1–21. Herod is presented as a false shepherd — a ruler who lives for his own lusts, fears, and self-preservation. Like the selfish shepherds of Ezekiel 34, Herod feeds himself and destroys others, even ordering the death of John the Baptist to cover his sins. His gut reaction to hearing about Jesus is not faith, but paranoia and guilt.

By contrast, when Jesus hears the news and faces the inconvenience of a needy crowd, He is moved with compassion. Rather than turning away in frustration, He heals their sick and miraculously feeds the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. Where Herod’s gut reaction is fear and self-centeredness, Jesus’ instinct is compassion that acts, heals, and provides.

This sermon challenges us to examine our own gut reactions toward people. Do we respond with anger, suspicion, and frustration—like Herod, like the false shepherds, like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol? Or will we learn from Jesus to respond with Christlike compassion that not only feels but also sacrifices to meet real needs?

The gospel reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd promised in Ezekiel 34 — the One who seeks the lost, binds the broken, and feeds His flock with justice.