One Shepherd

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep 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 are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. John 10:14-16

Jew or gentile, rich or poor, black or white, democrat or republican, college educated or grammar school graduate are all ways of describing one's self or others. 

Popular culture demands attentiveness to the differences between persons and cultures. 

Jesus says that his sheep listen to his voice. 

Both see the disparities in the world.

One measures stature and maintains pride. The other measures need and nurtures humility.

O Lord, in your mercy, teach me to see the needs of others. Free us and protect us from the evil one's desire to sow seeds of discord and pride amongst persons, cultures, and nations.

Give me ears to hear my Shepherd's voice that I might faithfully follow the desires of His heart in all I say and do. In the name of Jesus…