Are Sheep Dumb or Smart?

Last Sunday we heard the Gospel of the Good Shepherd. People are often compared to sheep who follow their shepherd wherever he leads them. Sheep have sometimes been caricatured as dumb animals who obediently follow even to their deaths. Actually they are rather smart because they recognize their master's voice and stay together like a community.

People in Jesus' time were familar with sheep and their habits, but today many are unacquainted with them. It is good time to reflect on shepherds and sheep. The sheep have a close relationship with their shepherd, and will not follow an unfamiliar voice. We need to draw close to Jesus and recognize his voice as he speaks to us in the everyday events of our lives. Sheep ordinarily stay together in the fold and take comfort in their closeness. We too need the support of one another as we form communities.

When a sheep strays from the right path, the shepherd seeks it out and brings it back, often carrying it on his shoulders. Jesus always take the initiative when we get lost and seeks us out. He never abandons or deserts us. Following Jesus is a smart decision.





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