Fourth Sunday in Easter

Jesus is the model shepherd and guardian of our souls. He makes it clear that a good shepherd lays down his life for the protection and guidance of the sheep. The bad or hired shepherd, is merely utilitarian. When trouble (wolves) arrive, this shepherd flees as he is only interested in the self and self-preservation. St. Peter, unfortunately, was like the hired shepherd at one point who denied Christ three times in his moment of need. Yet, St. Peter emerged as the leader and shepherd of the Universal Church. Thus, there is hope for all.

One of the quintessential qualities of being a sheperd is courage. The main source of our courage is knowledge of God and of his constant care for us. Many people who are plagued by fear are really suffering from a problem of truth. They have not grasped through wisdom and understanding who God really is and how he orders his world. God wants to shepherd his people and in so doing lead them home.

Scripture Readings for April 21, 2024

Acts 4:8-12
Psalm 118: 1, 8-9, 21-23, 26, 28, 29
1 John 3:1-2
John 10:11-18