In the passage from the Book of Revelation, something on the outside—the washing white of robes—symbolizes something on the inside—the faith of a person.

It would be difficult to approach this annual feast of the Good Shepherd without sparing a thought for the freshly installed (and probably still overwhelmed) pope, but the Good Shepherd the church relies on in every season remains the same as always.

THE SOUND of each person’s voice is as unique and recognizable as a fingerprint. God has a unique voice, too, but it’s subtle and we can easily fail to notice when God is speaking directly to us. It takes some practice.

Our Lord leads us to eternal life. With confidence in our shepherd we pray to God.

The Lamb who is in the center of the throne will shepherd them. Salvation-wise, the readings describe a move from smaller to larger. Paul and Barnabas turn their mission from those who reject their message to the wider world. John of Patmos turns his attention to a great multitude. These shifts of focus, however, are not without difficulty—expulsion and persecution—but the reward is great: eternal life in the presence of God who fulfills every need.

No different is the Word of God. However the gospel message comes to you—in scripture, liturgy, your beliefs, opportunities to serve—you are called to listen and then to do.

Human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives. –William James (1842-1910)