The Good Shepherd, George Floyd, and Derek Chauvin

This sermon is from Good Shepherd Sunday (April 25th) in this Easter Season. 

One of the haunting things from the high-profile trial of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd was the testimony of people in the crowd who saw it all happen -- and the deep sense of regret they carry for not doing more to stop what was happening before them. It is rattling testimony. When we face such moments, or any moments that call on something more from us, what will we do? 

Jesus says, "I am the good shepherd. I lay down my life for my sheep." What does this mean, really? And what does it mean, really, for us to lay our lives down for others -- not in words, but in truth and action?