Following the command of Jesus, John urged his community to love one another. Loving is the only way that we will know God because God is love. Those born of God's love know that it is the only way we can demonstrate the truth of our faith. Our theology and ritual can be perfect, but they are useless and empty if we lack love in our attitudes and behaviour. Love is the most eloquent of preaching and witness there is.

This compassionate love was expressed in the reaction of Jesus to the mass of people coming to him for healing. They were desperate and afraid. And to make matters worse, there were no shepherds concerned with their well-being and happiness. Good shepherds impart the wisdom of life to others. They teach them to make sense of their own lives and how to mature in wisdom and holiness. High on that list of gifts to impart to others is hope and encouragement.