Fourth Sunday of Easter Year B (Good Shepherd Sunday)
Acts 4: 8-12; 1John3:1-2; John 10:11-18
Today is the Fourth Sunday of Easter, also called Good Shepherd Sunday. The gospel proclaims Jesus as the good shepherd who gave up his life for his flock.
During the holy season of Lent, which came to a climax in our celebration of the Paschal Triduum, we remembered and relived how Jesus offered himself on the cross so that we may be reconciled with God.
And now that we are savoring the glory and triumph of his resurrection, we are consoled by our Lord who laid down his life for us and took it up again. The shepherd knows his flock. The Risen One called Mary Magdalene by her name. He returned to the upper room to strengthen Thomas. He entrusted his sheep to Peter despite his weakness. And there are other stories of the Risen Lord seeking out his disciples, teaching them again so that they could become His witnesses.
In the first reading, Peter testifies through his miracle and testimony that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who cares about us. So as his flock, He is always with us. He watches over us and guides us through the paths of life. He cares about us whenever we call upon Christ, our Good Shepherd in faith, He hears and answers us according to the purpose of His will.
The Apostles were very much aware of the divine and protective presence of Christ, the Good Shepherd. So, whenever they were in need, they turned to him for help. Peter testifies to this: “It was by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. This is the only one who can save us.” There is power, salvation, and healing in the name of the Risen Lord.
Our second reading presents us with the most essential attribute of the Risen Lord, the Good Shepherd. That is LOVE. St. John reminds us of this: “Behold the great love that the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God.”
Christ has shown this love for us by offering his life as a sacrifice for our salvation.
Friends, that is the Good Shepherd. He offered himself for the good of his flock. He sought and gathered his disciples again, so that he may lead them to the fullness of life in union with the Father. Let us follow where He leads us.
This week, we may reflect on these questions: Do we really want Jesus to embrace us in our stinking moments like he embraced that sheep? Will you allow Jesus to put you over his shoulder in your worst moments and bring you back to the flock?
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