In the first reading, St. Paul is bidding farewell to the elders in Ephesus on his way to Jerusalem. They were a group of believers to whom he had preached the Good News. St. Paul has shepherded them for three years and now they will have to shepherd others. They will have to face many challenges from outside forces and from within. Similarly in the Gospel proclamation, Jesus is bidding farewell to his disciples as he sends them out into the world. Jesus knows they will face many challenges and prays to the Father, “Sanctify them by the truth: your word is truth” (Jn 17:17). We too, have heard the Good News. We have repented, believed and have been filled with the Holy Spirit. A time will come when we will be sent out to share the Good News. Challenges, doubts and setbacks are inevitable. In such circumstances, the secret of remaining sanctified is revealed in today’s readings. We can overcome by surrendering ourselves to God and to his grace filled Word and by holding on to Jesus – the Word made flesh.

Prayer: Abba Father, protect all your shepherds whom you have called by name. Amen.