I Must Bring Them Also
Interfaith Connections

OVERVIEW OF TOPIC

Focus Text: John 10:11-18

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep.  I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.”

Scripture Commentary by Rev. David Amidon, St. Philip Lutheran, Raleigh , President, Interfaith Alliance of Wake Co.

“Jesus as the Good Shepherd is one of the most popular images of our Lord.  We see depictions of the serene shepherd gently watching over the flock, a staff in his hand, often cradling a lamb in one arm.  He is also portrayed as the one who has gone after the lost sheep and, after finding the wayward lamb, carries it back to the flock on his broad shoulders.”

Pastoral Reflection by Rev. David Amidon

“In 21st century North Carolina we have many and various ways to come into contact with “other sheep.”  Will we stick to our own kind, work to create a Christian enclave where we feel safe and secure, free from any risk? Or, will we be the welcoming face, the open hands, the purposeful feet, and the compassionate voice of Christ in the world so that all may know the love of God?”

Personal Vignette by Mark Sills

Mohammed and I were talking about our mutual friend Joe.  Joe is a very giving person who frequently goes out of his way to help someone in need.  “Joe is the best Muslim I know,” said Mohammed, much to my surprise.  “But Joe is a Catholic,” I replied.  “The definition of a Muslim,” Mohammed said calmly, “is to be submissive to God, and I don’t know anyone more submissive to God than Joe.”   The essence of interfaith work is to create such a level of mutual respect and trust that individuals can see the best aspects of their own faith tradition in the lives of their neighbors who are of other faith traditions.  And then, they can learn from one another.

Key Fact

Some people argue that the Golden Rule is the most consistent, moral teaching throughout history. Known also as the Ethic of Reciprocity, the Golden Rule is found in most religions and cultures.