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April 25, 2021It comes as no surprise to anyone these days that our political climate is rife with conflict, controversy and downright animosity towards those with whom we disagree. Some would prefer to live their lives engaging only with those who share or take for granted their own views and bias. Sadly enough, such tension can also be experienced within the Church itself. Conflicts arise because of our differing perspectives on tradition and authority but also because of culture, language and custom.
As disciples of our Good Shepherd, we are mindful that “Catholic” means universal. Therefore, combative language and suspicion have no place among those God has chosen to be his own. History shows us though, that from the beginning there have been lively disagreements as to how to best live and preach the Gospel. The Acts of the Apostles today points to the real challenges the early Church faced about how to receive gentile believers into its fold.
After much heated debate, it was finally decided that these gentile converts were not bound by the same religious observances as were their Jewish brothers and sisters. What was absolutely necessary for all, was the faith that they shared in the saving power of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Conversion of life was the true test of every Christian disciple. In the Lord’s own words, there is to be “one flock, one shepherd.”
As children of the Father, we each have been given a share in the astonishing gift of Jesus’ life, freely given and taken up again. Can we use the freedom won for us by Christ, to be brothers and sisters of the same sheepfold?
