The shepherd imagery is deeply rooted in biblical thought.

He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave (Phil. 2:7)

For Christ, while we were still godless, died at the appointed time for the ungodly (Rom. 5:6)

Eating with Jesus should be a time of healing, which can shock even customary religious sensitivities.

Christians today overly concerned about impressive gates and religious identity may find some surprising table companions at the messianic banquet.

As we prepare to celebrate the first coming of Jesus in history, the readings remind us that Christians should shape their faith in terms of hopes as well as of memories.