Summary: Jesus is the good shepherd who gives his life for his sheep. He knows them, they know him, and he brings all who listen into one united flock under his care.
Gospel Acclamation: I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in the truth. (John 17:19)
Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep.
I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd.”