GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY - FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER APRIL 21, 2024
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the celebration of the Good Shepherd Sunday. It is also a Day of Prayer for Vocations. The Scripture lessons for this day concern the role of the Shepherd of God’s flock in the Church. We reflect on the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd; who devotedly and kindly takes care of his flock.
The title Pastor means Shepherd. A Shepherd leads, feeds, nurtures, comforts, corrects and protects his flock- the responsibilities of a Church Leader.
The Gospel from John 10:11-18; offers us a comforting message that Jesus laid down his life for the sheep- a mission he accomplished on Good Friday. His second mission is to bring the other sheep to make one flock by the preaching of his disciples. They would go beyond Jerusalem, preaching salvation is in Christ crucified, who God raised him the dead and lives forever.
The Father is with his Son Jesus in his mission of a Good Shepherd characterized by obedience and love of the son- Jesus. Jesus has full knowledge of the sheep. His death will bring all the sheep together in one flock including the gentiles. His sheep are defined as those who listen to His voice. To these, Jesus says; “I know them and they follow me.”
We are challenged all in position of responsibility to be good shepherds to all entrusted to our care. The responsibility ranges from pastors, parents, teachers, doctors, nurses and government leaders. We have to be with them, guide them- minister to them.
Let us endeavor to be good sheep in the fold- in our local parish community by hearing and following the voice of the Shepherd heard in the Homilies, counseling and advice. - We all need the Spiritual food – Sacraments.
Let us pray for the Vocations to the Priesthood and Consecrated life. Let Parents be the first vocation Directors to speak to their children.
Have a great week!
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