Sheep Without a Shepherd

Ther readings and Gospel present . . .

. . . the shared human experience of being overwhelmed by responsibility and need.

King Solomon, faced with ruling a vast people, does not ask for power, wealth, or long life, but humbly asks God for the wisdom to discern what is truly right. His prayer pleases the Lord because it flows from humility and a desire to serve well rather than to benefit himself.

This theme continues in the Gospel, where the apostles return from ministry exhausted and surrounded by endless demands. Jesus invites them to withdraw and rest, yet the crowds follow.

When to Entrust the Rest to the Lord

Instead of placing the burden back on the apostles, Jesus steps forward as the true Shepherd, caring for the people while his disciples rest. The lesson is clear: human beings are limited, and only God can attend to every need. True wisdom lies in knowing when to act and when to entrust the rest to the Lord.

The Homily concludes by applying this truth to the Eucharist. In a world of constant distraction and obligation, worship is a sacred space where believers are invited to set aside their burdens, allow Christ to shepherd them, and receive renewal. The needs of the world will wait; for this moment, the Lord himself provides rest and restoration.

Hear more in this Meditation Media. Listen to

Sheep Without a Shepherd

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Gospel Reading: Mark 6: 30-34

First Reading: 1 Kings 3: 4-13

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Art Work

The Good Shepherd: Spanish Artist: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo: 1660

The Good Shepherd is an oil on canvas painting, now residing in the Prado Museum in Madrid

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Why was this image selected:

Murillo’s tender depiction of Christ gently guiding his sheep visually embodies the Gospel scene where Jesus sees the crowd as “sheep without a shepherd.” The calm authority and compassion of Christ reflect his role as the one who carries the burden so others may rest.