Show Notes
Overall Takeaway
Human nature tends to want to be more like “goats'' than “sheep”. It’s important to reflect on our internal dispositions to learn how we can be more like the “sheep” in the Good Shepherd’s flock.
Key Verses in Sunday Mass Readings
“I will rescue them from every place where they were scattered
when it was cloudy and dark.
I myself will pasture my sheep;
I myself will give them rest, says the Lord GOD.”
“And he will separate them one from another,
as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the king will say to those on his right,
'Come, you who are blessed by my Father.
Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”
Where Catholicism Meets Psychology
At the natural level, sheep and lambs are vulnerable and not very smart. They are docile and follow without question. Many of these characteristics are difficult for human beings to embrace; our nature tends to rebel against those things.
Goats, on the other hand, are often troublesome, independent, headstrong, and agile. They get bored easily and get into mischief. Humans tend to be much more like goats at the natural level.
To grow spiritually, we need to work on fostering the nature and internal disposition of sheep. Dr. Gerry and Dr. Peter go through a structured association exercise this week and invite you to do the same. Dr. Peter explores what Dr. Gerry’s responses might mean about his internal disposition and tendencies.
Action Item
Go through this week’s exercise, work with your responses to the structured association exercise, and pray about your internal “goat” and “sheep” dispositions.