A sermon for Misericordias Domini, by Fr. Dan Suelzle
The image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is not a sentimental metaphor. Sunday’s Gospel reading (John 10:11-16) reminds us that Christ’s work as our Good Shepherd is gritty, life-saving work in the face of actual spiritual peril. We are not merely wayward lambs but often obstinate ones, pursued by the wolves of sin, death, and false doctrine that seek to scatter the flock. To be the Good Shepherd, Christ did not simply offer worldly comfort; he stood in the breach, laying down his life to atone for our iniquities and rising again, slaying the wolves of sin and death. His Shepherding doesn’t stop there, however. He continues to shepherd his flock even now, through his Church. Today, the protection of our Good Shepherd isn’t found in vague spirituality but in the actual pastures of the Word and Sacraments, where the Shepherd’s voice sounds forth through his undershepherds, forgiving sins, granting wisdom, and nourishing us with his body and blood.
Listen to the homily below.
All Saints Lutheran Church and School 