Sharing the Shepherding!

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Hos 10: 1-3, 7-8, 12; Mt 10: 1-7

Today’s Gospel highlights the beginning of the missional journey of Jesus’ disciples. 

As Jesus sends his disciples into mission, he reminds us of the fact that discipleship is made up of two constituent parts: following Jesus and participating in his ministry. Accordingly, today’s Gospel invites us to reflect on how we can participate in Jesus’ ministry. What must be our attitude about carrying the divine authority of Jesus?

At first, sharing in Christ’s shepherding means becoming visible witnesses to his love. It is about becoming the instruments of his care. Hence, we participate in Christ’s shepherding meaningfully when we help others discover that they are loved and forgiven by God. Thus, sharing Christ’s shepherding means becoming the very extensions of the heart of the Lord. 

Secondly, carrying the divine authority of Jesus is not using it for self-serving purposes. Nor is it about exercising control over others or seeking privilege for ourselves. Instead, it is about driving out evil and about curing every disease and illness. Thus, spreading the goodness of the Lord and radiating it are the best ways in which we carry the divine authority of Jesus.

Thirdly, sharing Christ’s shepherding would also mean sharing his vision and becoming its active practitioners. Thus, proclaiming the Kingdom and testifying to its transforming power are the meaning of true proclamation. Thus, pointing to God’s reign and Christ have become the chief objectives of our mission.

Let us pray that we may share Christ’s shepherding through our faithful and loyal love for him. 

Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar