Homebodies - ‘The Shepherdess’
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- Published on Sunday, April 10, 2016
By Rita Friesen
The Neepawa Banner
A few weeks ago, one of the reflective times in the CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) study group introduced the image of ’The Shepherdess’ by Johann Baptist Hofner, 1832-1913. Accompanying the photo, ‘A significant aspect of education in the field of chaplaincy is the development of the self as a tool for ministry… Instead of forging ahead with growth and progress, chaplains are called to accompany and keep watch, as it were, in varying situations that are far from the ideal progress we may believe is the “will of God” as we have understood it.’
Much of my studies this winter has encouraged self-examination, in fact – demanded it. This picture and quote was the basis of one of my reflective presentations.
Perhaps this image struck deep because of the years I spent as a shepherdess. In my teens I was left in charge of a flock of some two hundred ewes, lambing time included. I know a bit about sheep and can see how the gospels compare us, the people of God, to sheep of God’s own flock. One of the reasons Psalm 23 is so popular as well. What I see, looking at the story portrayed, is, yes, the shepherdess, but so much more. There is the trust that the ewe has for the keeper, the calmness of the lamb in arms, the beauty of the world around them. Green grass, soft colours of flowers, gentle clouds warming the scene. In the distance are more sheep, safe in the fold.
I see myself in the mother sheep. Throughout parenting, I have tried to learn to trust the Good Shepherd to care for my lambs when I am unable, for a myriad of reasons, to provide the care they need. Standing beside the shepherd, watching and trusting. There are more times than I can count when I have been that little lamb, held safe and secure in the careful embrace of the Good Shepherd. There is no shame in seeking safety there; there is no hesitation to trust the one who has always cared for me with gentle hands. This picture in particular emphasises a truth that I hold dear. The work of the shepherd/shepherdess is often performed outside of the fold, outside of the church. The hurting ones, me included, often find it challenging to join in the flock and, at times, need the help to come to us.
I thought long, deep thoughts gazing at the scene. The shepherdess is a humble farm girl, bare footed, casual in wrapping her apron around the lamb she is holding. The needs of the living creation appear more important than proprieties. I like that. B.J. Thomas – ‘using things and loving people’ rather than ‘loving things and using people’ comes to mind. The beauty of the earth, the care for creation, may these be seen by my eyes in my world.
