Growing up in Tisa,
I entered the Aspirantate of Don Bosco Missionary Seminary after Grade Six.
Summer was one of the most exciting times of the year because we were home for
vacation. We were encouraged to give a hand in the parish where we belonged.
Being a parishioner of Lourdes Parish, then, I volunteered to be a catechist
and youth leader. It was there that I met one of the most inspiring persons in
my life: Bro. Elmer Rodriguez, SDB. After the daily 6:30 AM Mass, I could hear
the familiar voice of Bro. Elmer gathering us, aspirants, around him to share
stories and laughter. He was also home for his vacation. Bro. Elmer was a
Salesian Brother with a big and kindly heart.
Bro. Elmer was a
natural leader. But he was not a good communicator. In fact, he would stutter
when he speaks. Yet he had a commanding presence with his friendly and cheerful
style that was attractive. He was also a story-teller and his stories were
borne from his own life experiences. His insights were enough learning for the
day. Most of all, one can discern that he had a compassionate heart for the
poor and those less in life. Shy with big crowds, he was not particularly
talented. But we loved him in his simplicity and warmth.
The Fourth Sunday
of Easter is known as Good Shepherd Sunday. It is also World Day Prayer for
Vocations. Today we pray for vocations to the priestly and religious life. What attracts young people to this vocation
are the priests and religious themselves. No doubt, God continues to call
today’s youth to this particular way of life. Perhaps their witnessing is not
clear enough. Moreover, the role of shepherding may also be extended to those
who care for others: parents, teachers, doctors, nurses and public officials.
Shepherds are those who lead, nourish, nurture, comfort, care, guide and
protect those entrusted to them.
Today’s gospel
offers a great challenge in shepherding. Introducing himself as the Good
Shepherd of the flock, Jesus makes three claims. First, he knows his sheep and
they listen to his voice. Second, he gives eternal life to them. Finally, he
protects them by entrusting them to the Father. Hence, real shepherding demands
total dedication and selfless consecration to the point of giving up one’s life
for the sheep. May God continue to give us shepherds with a Christ-like heart.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to have the heart of a Good Shepherd like the heart of Christ. Amen.
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