May 11: The Day of the Lord

This Fourth Sunday of Easter has traditionally carried the added name “Good Shepherd Sunday.” This is due, in part, to the fact that the Gospel passage each year is take from somewhere in the 10^th chapter of St. John’s Gospel – which is filled with Jesus’ use of shepherding images. His teaching about “a caring shepherd,” which was formed within an ancient agricultural society, remains valid despite the change in farming and ranching practices of today. His teaching still speaks of the intimate closeness and tenderness of His relationship with each one of us individually. "The shepherd knows his sheep, and the sheep know their shepherd." Complete trust is implicit.  

Specifically, the Gospel today (10, 27-30) makes some sweeping claims – eternal life is promised for His sheep, and so is total protection from anyone who would seek to snatch them away. The passage finishes up with the declaration that Jesus and God are one. Do we trust that they are always working together for our good? Do our lives reflect that trust in their care? What are we doing all day, every day to show that we believe in their blessing, inspiration, and protection?