This parable makes sense by understanding the social behaviors of sheep. Sheep are animals that rely heavily on their flock for safety, bonding, and purpose. When isolated, they undergo severe stress and demand extra attention until they are properly reintegrated into the community. Therefore, the image of the Good Shepherd placing the lost sheep on His shoulders mirrors the grace our Lord offers us as we find ourselves settling into a fellowship we can call our own.

Fear is “an evil and corroding thread” which “touches about every aspect of our lives” (Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 67). We had to be lifted by the Good Shepherd in order to overcome fear’s paralyzing properties. Once we are active in a fellowship of believers, we are told to stay in the middle of the herd.

This Sunday’s Gospel reading captures the safety and salvation we can expect to find as the sheep of Jesus’ flock:

Jesus said:
“My sheep hear my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.
No one can take them out of my hand.
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all,
and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand.
The Father and I are one.”

As we rely on the Twelve Steps and the sacramental life of the Church, we replace fear with faith and begin to experience freedom. Our identity is formed by God’s unwavering love for us, which overcomes any obstacles – real or perceived – standing in the way of our serenity.

Reflection Questions

• How have you personally witnessed Jesus as the Good Shepherd?
• Contrast and share your experience of being among the herd with the feeling of being isolated from it.
• What fears have you overcome because of your recovery and faith in Jesus Christ?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 13:14, 43-52
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 5
Second Reading: Revelation 7:9, 14b-17
Gospel: John 10:27-30

Download Printable Meeting Reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery

Download Virtual Meeting Reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery