by Victoria Heinecke

It’s not always obvious.

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“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. ”
Matthew 9:36 English Standard Version (ESV)

The Pikes Peak region has several populations of Bighorn Sheep, and they can be seen around the mountains west of Colorado Springs. They’re sometimes confused with mountain goats, especially when they don’t have their signature horns. Both animals are at home on the slopes, and mountain goats have a white woolly coat. It’s easy to call them “sheep,” and we can’t always tell the difference between them.

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.”
Matthew 25:31-33 ESV

The Son of Man knows the difference between the sheep and goats among us. He will not require our opinion as to who is a sheep and who is a goat. He knows the difference, and his compassion and grace are a gift to all.

Our society continues to split into factions around causes, not unlike the Hebrews and the Samaritans of Jesus’ day. In the age of social media and 24-hour news, it can be challenging to see the sheep in our society as sheep, instead of goats. We are all sheep in need of the Good Shepherd.

“Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’”
Matthew 25:37b-40 ESV

Dear Lord, guide us through our daily lives, and help us to see where we can be your hands and your heart. Be compassionate to us, and help us show your compassion to others. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado