1 John 3:16-18
We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers and sisters. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth. 1 John 3:16-18 (NRSVUE)
I looked in the rear-view mirror as we drove away from dropping our firstborn daughter off at college in a city several hours away as she walked to a new student welcome event. I felt some mom guilt over the fact that I didn’t shed a tear. Instead, I had such heartfelt excitement for her as she began a new journey. I may have also been a little giddy over thinking my sacrifices and hard work as her mom had come to a close. Famous last words.
A mother’s job is never done. Having adult children also comes with challenges and we worry about their grown-up problems even more. But I think what is so fulfilling about a mother’s role is that we love another human being so deeply we’d lay down our lives for them. And, we do our best to shepherd our children in teaching them what’s truly important in life. It’s more about our actions than our words. It’s more about loving God and others well than it is about ourselves. I’m fortunate to say I see that in each of my daughters.
It’s the fourth Sunday of Easter, when we’re reminded that Jesus was the ultimate Good Shepherd. During his time on earth, he was a protective, caring and loving figure for his followers. He was always looking outside of himself, even to the point of laying down his own life for us.
On this Mother’s Day and Senior Recognition Sunday, may we learn from Jesus how to show love to others in simple deeds. May we not miss what we see in our rear-view mirror, learning from our mistakes, but then look ahead and look outward. The best advice we can give to our graduating seniors and to our children is to be a good shepherd and also to seek others who can shepherd you. May Jesus’ love guide you in your journey ahead.
Question for Reflection:
- Have you ever thought of yourself as a shepherd?
Prayer:
Loving God, thank you for sending Jesus, the Good Shepherd, to teach us his ways of love. Help our actions reflect care and concern for others so that they, likewise, become good shepherds and make a positive impact in their own futures. Amen.
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