The Gospel of John, chapter 10:27

St. John Vianney had always wanted to be a priest. For many years, it seemed he would never fulfill his goal. He was forced into the French army. He worked as a farmer’s helper for many years. When he entered the seminary, many said he was too old and too slow to be ordained. He persevered and was eventually ordained a priest. Proud as he was of his accomplishment, he used to say, “I am not a priest for myself. I am a priest for others.”

What is true of the vocation to the priesthood is true also of the vocation of every Christian. We are Christians not just for ourselves, but for others also. Have you ever wondered why God called you? Most of us know that we are no better than others who are not members of a church. Why did God choose us and what does he expect of us in return? That is the question we grapple with in today’s reading. Theologians call it a mystery, the mystery of election. Jesus addresses it when He says that He is the Good Shepherd, the leader of the flock that God has entrusted to him, and that His sheep; His followers; hear His voice.

The purpose of a light is to brighten the way for others, to make their footsteps safe, to keep them from plunging into darkness. We are the light, not for ourselves but for others. All the helps and graces we are given are to strengthen us so that we may give the world an example of Jesus’ love.

Jesus calls us His flock. The shepherd knows each sheep by name and treasures each, individually. Christianity is about intimacy, intimacy with God, through Jesus, and intimacy with one another. To the degree that we put that intimate love into practice, we are fulfilling our baptismal call. To the degree that we remain aloof and distant from God and from one another, we have failed to respond to that call.

Now is the time to examine our vocation, our calling as followers of Christ.

Fr. Hugh Duffy