Gospel Reflection May 11 – Father Black
Sunday, May 11
Fourth Sunday of Easter
John 10: 27-30
Gospel:
Jesus said:
“My sheep hear my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.
No one can take them out of my hand.
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all,
and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand.
The Father and I are one.”
Gospel Reflection:
In today’s gospel, Jesus says “My sheep hear my voice”. A shepherd’s voice is uniquely important to the sheep. It is what leads them to food and water. It is what provides them with rest and protection. It is what directs their steps. Sheep completely rely on the shepherd for everything. So when they hear and recognize his voice, it is almost instinctive to respond. They not only respond, but respond with trust.
This is why the image of the Good Shepherd is such an important one for us. In so many ways, the Lord nourishes us when we hunger. He provides us with rest when weary, protection when afraid. He will always give us right direction and sometimes needed re-direction. When we hear His voice, it might be coming from within, or it could be coming from a caring friend or even a stranger. Our challenge is that sometimes our response to His voice isn’t always instinctual. Sometimes our own desires or needs distort the true voice that lovingly calls out to us. Let us always listen to Him.
Father Black
