First Reading - Acts 20:28-38
Gospel - John 17:11-19
A shepherd’s greatest concern is not for himself, but for the safety and well-being of the flock entrusted to him. A loving parent thinks constantly about protecting and guiding the family. In the same way, today’s Word of God reveals the deep care and concern that both Paul and Jesus Christ have for the people entrusted to them.
In the first reading, Paul continues his farewell address to the elders of Ephesus. He urges them to “keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock” entrusted to them by the Holy Spirit.
Paul warns them that difficulties and false teachings will arise, and therefore they must remain vigilant shepherds. He reminds them of his own example—how he worked tirelessly, taught with dedication, and cared for the community with love and sacrifice.
Then Paul gives a beautiful teaching: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” His life itself became an example of generous service.
At the end, the scene becomes deeply emotional. The people weep, embrace Paul, and grieve because they know they will not see him again. Their tears reveal the deep bond created through faithful ministry and genuine love.
In the Gospel, Jesus continues His prayer to the Father before His Passion. He prays especially for His disciples, asking that they may be protected and remain one.
Jesus knows that His followers will remain in the world, a world often marked by sin, opposition, and confusion. Yet He does not ask that they be taken out of the world, but that they be protected from evil.
He also prays: “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” The disciples are consecrated and sent into the world just as Jesus Himself was sent.
Dear friends, these readings invite us to reflect on three important aspects of Christian life: responsibility, unity, and holiness.
First, responsibility. Paul reminds the leaders of the Church that caring for others is a sacred duty. In different ways, all of us are entrusted with people—family members, children, students, parishioners, friends. We are called to guide and care for them responsibly.
Second, unity. Jesus prays that His disciples may remain one. Division weakens Christian witness, but unity reflects the love of God. We are called to build harmony, forgiveness, and understanding in our relationships and communities.
Third, holiness. Jesus asks the Father to sanctify His disciples in the truth. Holiness is not reserved for a few extraordinary people; it is the calling of every Christian. We grow in holiness through prayer, Scripture, the sacraments, and faithful living.
The question for us today is: are we caring responsibly for those entrusted to us? Are we working for unity or contributing to division? And are we striving to grow in holiness through the truth of God’s Word?
May we learn from the example of Paul’s generous service. May we remain united in Christ through love and forgiveness. And may the Lord sanctify us in His truth, so that our lives may become faithful witnesses to the Gospel.
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