Fourth Sunday in Advent 2024

When it comes to shepherding sheep, consider the contrast between the following two shepherds. One lies down inattentively on the plush grass. The other stands watchful on a high perch. The first stuffs his mouth with mutton and imbibes excessively with wine. The other scans the horizon, looking back and forth along the tree line at the edge of the meadow. The first snores. The other sees the lion emerge and makes ready to engage the predatory enemy. Micah, the 8th Century Prophet denounces the shepherds of Israel, even as he announces the coming of the faithful shepherd.