The Lord Jesus has his favorite images. Toward the top of the list is the one of shepherd and sheep – not just any shepherd, but the one who is the Good Shepherd. This is the Herder who in times of danger will not walk away, the trustful shepherd who will not leave the sheep behind.

Throughout this sheep and shepherd imagery, the concept of bonding and intimate connection weaves through, the welfare of one extending to the welfare of all. This is the reality of inclusion, the promise of being taken up into a sustained, reliable, solid, and mutual relationship.

In John’s tenth chapter, Jesus lays out this resilient 3-way bond: between these wandering sheep (us); the good and trustworthy Shepherd (Jesus Himself); and the Father of Jesus who is God.

These are the claims he makes:

-“I give my sheep eternal life. No one can take them out of my hand.”

-“My Father has given these sheep to me. And no one can take them out of His hand.”

-“The Father and I are one.”

What is happening in one member carries over into all the others. And what is happening could well be described as “power and presence.”

As shepherd, Jesus is sharing his saving power with all of us, spreading his healing presence through the entire flock. And he makes it clear that His presence and power is also that of His Father. All three, the sheep, the shepherd and the shepherd’s God are intertwined in the one life.

In what ways might all this come to bear on our lives, we believers in Jesus and his Father? Many dimensions emerge, but one in particular is highlighted in John’s gospel — Jesus’ assurance that “I give them eternal life – and they shall never perish.”

This one who shepherds will do that shepherding forever, leading us into eternity. At the time of our passing, He and his Father will not abandon us. The bond that unites us in life will remain and grow even stronger after our earthly lives come to an end. The Good Shepherd keeps on shepherding all through life and then especially beyond death.

His caring presence is not just wishful thinking, some vague hope, a casual assumption that things will turn out alright. His bond with the flock is eternal.

Encouraging Sister Madeleine Mongert, Louise cites the Good Shepherd who gives His all for the well-being of his fold.

Are you being very courageous? Are you imitating the Good Shepherd who risks his life for the welfare and safety of the flock under His care? (SWLM, L.70 b).