“When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.” (Mark 6:34)

The major theme for this Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time explains how God, like a good shepherd, redeems us and provides for us, challenging us to use our God-given authority in the family, Church and society with fidelity and responsibility to God.

The readings teach us that pastoral ministry includes also the loving service given by all Christians to serve and lead others to fulfill God’s will because in the spiritual sense, all are called to become “pastors” to take good care of one another in Christ Jesus.

A pastor teaches, though he himself must solicit his own classes and inquire after absentee pupils. He heals, although without medicine or scalpel. He is sometimes a legal advocate, often a social worker, something of an editor and a bit of a philosopher or poet. He must alternate as an entertainer, salesperson and decorative piece for public functions.

He is expected to be a scholar. He visits the sick, officiates at marriages, buries the dead, consoles the sorrowful, admonishes sinners and tries to remain calm and cordial when criticized for not doing his duty. He plans programs, appoints committees and spends considerable time listening to problems and complaints. He does maintenance on equipment that should be replaced, prepares a homily and preaches it each weekend to the already converted and to critics of his insights and oratory. He often smiles and remains silent to be prudent in dealing with difficult people.

Pastoring like parenting is an art that requires due diligence, perseverance, and wisdom. Among the virtues most praised and quality of a good pastor are: (1) “humility,” willingness to serve without regard to acclaim; (2) “honesty,” personal “integrity,” the ability to honor commitments by carrying out promises without compromise; (3) Christian example, and (4) special pastoral skills and expertise.

Jesus Christ is our best model of a good pastor and invites all of us to follow His footsteps to take good care of His sheep to glorify our God.

God does not want us holding a relationship of Transaction but Transformation. How can we become good shepherds to assist the double responsibility of teaching and feeding God’s sheep?

Wishing everyone a blessed week in the Lord.