The Courage To Lay Down Our Lives For Others

by Fr. Clement Attah  |  04/21/2024  |  Weekly Reflection

Today is called “Good Shepherd Sunday”. One of the remarkable qualities of a good shepherd is his willingness to lay down his life for his flock. Christ did that for us. He laid down His life for us on the cross. At every mass, He continues to lay down His life for us.

Like Jesus, we too are called to lay down our lives for others. One of the greatest ways many of you have inspired me in this parish is your dedication as caregivers to your loved ones. Some of you have given up your plans and your life so that your child with a special need or your loved one who is terminally ill can live. You are my heroes. Like Jesus, every second, every minute, every hour, every day, every week, and for the last ten, twenty, thirty years, you have been giving your very best so that your spouse, your son, your daughter, your mom, your dad, your sister, or your brother can live. I know it’s not been easy. But it is people like you that give me the reason to never give up on humanity. Some people may never know what it means to love in a sacrificial way without your good example. So, THANK YOU!

If you know anyone laying down their life for someone, today is a good day to show them appreciation. I would like to propose again that once every year, we can come together to appreciate and celebrate all caregivers in our Parish. This will help our parishioners who are caregivers to their loved ones know they are not alone. I would also like to invite you all to support in any way, the ALL IN Ministry here at Our Lady of Joy. It’s a ministry that supports people with special needs and their families. You can contact Maggie Cuevas @ 219-510-7459 for more details

God bless you all!