On my way out of Framlingham one recent Sunday morning, my mind on the service I was heading off to lead, I was brought back to the moment as I watched a dog, placidly on a lead, suddenly take off, pulling free from its unsuspecting walker to go in pursuit of another unsuspecting dog and its own walker on the other side of the road. Fortunately, the road was empty, and the risk was minimal. The excitement that followed went on for several moments before calm was restored. I spent several miles wondering what caused the sudden spirited behaviour.
I grew up in a home with a Jack Russell terrier called Hector. Memories of Hector should have reminded me immediately that there does not have to be a catalyst for a reaction to occur. If ever Hector raised one ear, or opened one eye it meant, simply, ‘I am thinking, and you may not like what is coming next’. The polite description is to say that such a little chap is a ‘bit of a character’. My father employed stronger language and whatever incident occurred, it was usually soon over.
The parable of the Good Shepherd is about protecting the innocent from the aggressive. The sheep and the wolf respectively feature in the parable. Aggression comes in many forms and can arise apparently without reason. A mood of the moment inspires uncharacteristic behaviour and harm is done. Whether aggression is routine or a one off, we all owe it to one another to be alert and ready to protect the vulnerable and unsuspecting or unaware from harm of any sort. When the people involved are vulnerable, we call it Safeguarding, but in truth safeguarding should be a part of the life of every civilised person, let alone every Christian.
A Prayer
Good Shepherd, sometimes a mood can strike me, and I pull away from my restraints and might harm your sheep. Sometimes I am minding my business, and someone comes for me unprovoked. Help me keep out of such situations and not to respond to moods and moments for no reason. Careful watcher, thank you for your protection, always. Amen.