From Scripture

From Scripture: John 10:11 - 18,
The Good Shepherd
This Gospel describes the ideal for our relationship with Jesus.  In our society today, we are told that it's good to act for ourselves first, stand on our own, and do what is best for us as individuals.  Our allegiance to others is secondary.  The problem becomes, on whom can we rely for help when we encounter trouble?
In Jesus' day, a shepherd lived with his sheep, cared for them, and even put himself at risk to keep them safe.  He kept them in a flock for safety to protect them from predators.  Their shepherd was trusted and familiar, and the sheep recognized his voice and wouldn't follow another, unknown voice.  He was their Good Shepherd. 
Jesus is the Good Shepherd for all of humankind.  Jesus placed himself in the role of a shepherd and predicted that he would give his life for his sheep.  Although his sheepfold began in Israel, he hopes to have one flock made up of the whole world.  His flock is the Church he founded and all who follow his voice are his sheep.