From today's first reading: "I will appoint shepherds for them who will shepherd them so that they need no longer fear and tremble; and none shall be missing, says the LORD."
From today's gospel: "When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, [Jesus'] heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things."
De La Salle (Med. 196.1): "Consider Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd of the Gospel, who seeks the lost sheep, puts it on his shoulders, and carries it back to restore it to the fold. Because you are taking his place, consider that you are obliged to do the same thing. Ask him for the grace needed to procure the conversion of hearts."
Here we are, at the beginning of a new school year. It will not just be the freshmen who seem a little confused, out of sorts, or seeming to be sheep without shepherds. Even our upperclassmen will have concerns and problems, new and old. We have been called to be with those who are fearful, troubled, and in need, bringing them the joy and love that Jesus brings to all and that we share as his ambassadors. May this school year teach us many things, things that we will share for the benefit of our students.
Live, Jesus, in our hearts!