The first reading tells us that we are the body of Christ, and each one of us individually is a member of it. There is a large number of instruments in an orchestra, of which the smallest is a piccolo. Once during a rehearsal, the musician who played the piccolo felt insignificant and kept idling while all other instruments were played. But the conductor realized this and asked why the piccolo sound was missing.

This made the musician understand that together, in a variety of different instruments even the smallest is equally important. It is for a particular purpose they are put together to be combined in harmony. Everyone’s role is important when building the church, the body of Christ. We are vital parts that have to function together, therefore we are called to give our best. The Gospel proclamation shows God’s compassionate heart for the weak and the vulnerable. God wipes our tears, feels our pain and rushes to soothe, ease and bind our wounds. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and our pain will not go unnoticed by him.

Prayer: Abba Father, make us understand our uniqueness in building the church, that we may know we are here for a purpose. Amen.