Ezekiel 34:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The same message was conveyed by Paul when he stated, "because all seek their own, and not the things that please Jesus Christ" (Phil. 2:21). He also noted in another passage, "no one seeks his own, but each one the benefit of another" (1 Cor. 10:24). However, Christ sets Himself apart from both attitudes: from those who aim to destroy, as He declared, "I came that they might have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10); and from those who allow the wolves to ravage the flock, as He not only chose not to abandon them but willingly gave His life for the sheep, ensuring they would not be lost.

For My sheep have been instructed to ravage, meaning that due to the carelessness of the shepherds, My people have succumbed to the desires of sin.

The people of God became dispersed due to various sins or misguided doctrines, as there was no true shepherd willing to sacrifice himself for the sheep. Instead, they were led by hirelings of all types who sought only the profit of the flocks and would flee at the sight of danger. Because of this negligence, the Lord's flock was consumed by wild beasts, as it is written, ‘You have laid the darkness, and there was night, and in it all the beasts of the oak shall pass away: the snarling beasts of the forest shall roar, and seek their food from God (Psalm 103:20-21). They scatter and roam on every mountain, those who elevate themselves above the knowledge of God, and on every high hill, those who, in their pride, disregard the purity of the church.

I acknowledge the admonition, and I turn my attention to myself and to others who, by divine providence, have been entrusted with the care of souls. Indeed, dear friends and fellow workers, we must approach our calling with trepidation and utmost diligence, considering if we embody what our vocation demands. I do not inquire whether you wear the visible marks of divine grace, akin to St. Paul or St. Alexis. The Holy Spirit bestows unique and extraordinary gifts of grace as He sees fit, and these are not universally required. Instead, do we strive to gain sufficient spiritual insight to adequately teach others? Do we organize our lives in such a manner that our actions speak volumes, transcending mere words? Are we vigilant over our own souls?