Jesus is the universal good shepherd - He treats every sheep equally
4th Week of Easter : Monday 4th May 2020
Acts 11:1-18; Ps. 42(41):2-3; 42:3,4;
Jn. 10:11-18 (or Jn. 10:1-10) (Ps Wk IV)
“I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold.” Both readings today interweave a single theme, namely that Christ the Good Shepherd belongs to all. In the first reading, we have Peter’s testimony about God being at work in the lives of Gentiles, and they too, are being inspired to live a good life in God. Listening to Peter’s testimony was a transforming experience for the circumcised believers. After listening to him, they changed their minds and gave glory to God for his great deeds among the Gentiles.
In the Gospel, Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd. He is a different kind of shepherd, who will eventually lay down his life for his flock. Jesus extends his flock when he says, “I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice” (Jn 10:16). Jesus is the universal good shepherd. He constantly looks after his flock. He does not make any distinction between those who belong to his flock and those who do not yet belong to his flock. He treats every sheep equally.
Lord Jesus, grant us the grace to accept one another with equality, respect and dignity as we all belong to the one God.
homepage zähler Shalom hits 1st December 2019