Search
-
April 30, 2021Christ, the Good Shepherd: A Symbol of Our Faith
Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. -John 10:27
This past Sunday, we celebrated Good Shepherd Sunday which offers us an image of Our Lord which is a favorite of many in the Church often used as imagery for reconciliation, for First Penance, for inspiration in encouraging vocations, and for comfort as we lose a loved one. It is a rich symbol of the God’s goodness as He is depicted throughout the Bible as the Good Shepherd taking care of us, members of His flock. One might think that the image of Christ crucified is the earliest Christian symbol depicted in art. However, the Cross was the instrument of torture and used for a horrendous death and was not used as a representation of Jesus early on. It became more visible as a symbol of Christ and His selfless gift to humanity after the Christian emperor Constantine abolished crucifixion. In early Christianity, the most popular image of Christ was the Good Shepherd. The image seen above is found in the Catacomb of St. Callixtus in Rome built around the late 2nd century (in the late 100s AD). This image of Christ was possibly used in the 3rd century.
Persecuted for their faith (believed to be a strange and threatening superstition), the early Christians, were often suspected and accused of terrible crimes. Many were exiled, imprisoned, or martyred for their practices of their faith. Unlike in modern times as we profess our faith openly, they were unable to do so. The Christians in ancient times made use of symbols that they often placed on the walls of the catacombs. These places which housed the tombs of their loved ones were also places found to be safe to come together for their gatherings of worship. The symbols were visible reminders, representing spirituality realities of their faith.
Christ, The Good Shepherd, is seen as our loving, caring, personal God who protects, guards, takes care of and saves His Sheep. Just like earthly shepherds who care for the flocks as the sheep listen to their voices, we hear and know the voice of Our Good Shepherd. Listening to His Voice, we are called to care for others in the same manner as Jesus, Our Good Shepherd.
These words used at Baptism in the Ephphetha (be opened) prayer can echo in our very souls --
“The Lord Jesus made the deaf hear and the [mute] speak. May He soon touch your ears to receive His word, and your mouth to proclaim His faith, to the praise glory of God the Father.”
Let us imitate Our Good Lord as a good family member, a good worker, a good student, a good neighbor and a good shepherd to those in need. Let us become a living symbol of our faith.
Amen! Alleluia!
Fr. John
