Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Easter…April 30, 2023

by Cathy and Gary Leak, Notre Dame Associates

Reading 1: Acts 2:14a, 36-41

Ps 23: 1-3a, 3-4, 5-6

Reading 2: 1Pt 2:20b-25

Gospel: Jn 10: 1-10

In the first reading Peter is taking on the role of shepherd after Jesus has risen from the dead. Peter preaches to the Israelites to repent and be baptized so the Israelites can receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Peter and the Apostles baptized three thousand people that day.

Psalm 23 is a very familial passage to us. It describes how the Lord our Shepherd leads us, protects us, feeds us, and guides us along the right path.

The second reading also addresses the role of the Good Shepherd.  Peter reminds us that Jesus, the Divine Shepherd, suffered for us, for our souls, so we might live in righteousness.  The Divine Shepherd will guard us against false leaders and false prophets who come like robbers to harm the flock.

In John’s Gospel we hear that Jesus knows us deeply, intimately and personally as a Shepard knows His flock. A shepherd calls his sheep by name, leads them, and walks ahead of them and keeps them safe.  We hear the call of His voice as Jesus opens the gate through which we enter into His Kingdom of salvation, and abundant eternal life.

Are we going to follow only earthly leaders, or the Good Shepherd in our daily life? Are we being a good shepherd, a model, for others to follow?