Gate-Keepers

                                                      (Morocco Reflection 2.)

Morocco is ruled by King Mohammed VI.  Besides being very powerful, our guide pointed out that the king has more than 30 palaces.  We saw palaces in every city we visited.  But we only saw walls surrounding them and their main entrance gates.  At each gate there were military officers and other officials, who monitored those who wanted to enter.      

Seeing those gate-keepers reminded me of Pam Cremer and Mary Ann Huser who served as ‘gate-keepers’ for me when I was Pastor of St. Richard Parish.  They did a great job of fending off salesmen on the one hand, and making sure that I talked to or got messages from parishioners on the other hand. Thanks Pam and Mary Ann!

Is there someone in your life who is like a gate-keeper?  Someone who speaks for you when you need to rest or when you’re just not up to dealing with someone or some issue? 

In John’s Gospel we are reminded that Jesus is not only our good Shepherd, but He’s also the gate and the gate-keeper. (John 10:7-9)  We enter the heavenly sheepfold by going thru Him. The good news is that He’s a compassionate gate-keeper and a merciful judge. 

What do you think Jesus will say to you when it’s your turn to enter that gate?