(GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY)
1ST READING: Acts 13: 14.43-52
RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 100:1-2.3.5 (R. 3c)
2ND READING: Revelation 7:9.14b -17
GOSPEL READING: John 10:27-30
Every shepherd knows his flock and the flock knows their shepherd even by just hearing the master's voice.
Christ uses the illustration of "Good Shepherd and Sheep" to specify the bond he has with us.
But what I and You should ask ourselves is this, are we that sheep that the master know? Do we know his voice. Are we following the master's voice?
A sheep that does not follow the master goes astral. A sheep that goes astral fall into trouble. It can either be stolen by thieves or be killed by an evil person.
Therefore my people of God, if we are the followers of Christ and his sheep, we will do his wills, we will follow his voice, we shall be like the disciples in the first reading when Paul says, "For so the Lord has commanded us saying, I have set you to be a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth" ( Acts 13:47 ).
As a light, you will shine so bright and lead many to salvation. As a light, you're to defeat darkness. And as a light let there be brightness in your homes and in the hearts of those around you, for so the Lord has Commanded I and you.
As children of God with Christ-like Attitudes, may we be a flock that the master knows. May we be the sheep that hears the master's voice and follow him. And may we be a light that brings salvation to the whole world.
The attitude of the Jews towards Paul and Barnabas when they saw how many new converts were joining them reminds me of what Jesus said concerning the Chief priests and Sanhedrin who do not want to enter heaven and would do everything to stop everyone else from entering. There were saints like St Anthony of Padua who left and went to the sea shore and started preaching to the fishes who gathered to listen to the word of God. If I try to win a soul through preaching the word of God and they refuse to listen, l am here by encouraged to keep moving and not lose hope . God has his time for everything under the sun.
The second reading reminds me that only those who have lived the life of righteousness that we have been called to and remained steadfast in faith till the end are worthy to be in heaven with God. What a profound picture of life without hunger, heat or any form of discomfort as we know today. A life definitely worth dying for.
The gospel hereby reminds me of the intimacy between our Lord and his sheep. If we familiarize ourselves with the word of God, it is impossible not to recognize his voice in every situation we find ourselves. If we remain rooted in his word, it will be difficult for the adversary to confuse us . May God give us such shepherds that would lead us to him in the end.
Jesus is portrayed as a good shepherd in today's Responsorial Psalms and Gospel. No matter how far we have derailed, He is always ready to leave every other just for you to come into His flock. This is because to Him you are very special.
Sometimes, when we are faced with difficulties it seems like God is silent but not at all. He is always aware of all that happens to us and as an amazing shepherd, who is caring and loving, He looks out for us and ensure to give us the best.
As a good shepherd, He always fights our unseen battles those times we are asleep in the night, those times we were almost knocked down by accidents or almost fall into a ditch, He was there to protect us (no be your wisnessoo). So we need to be grateful.
Because He loves us dearly, He never fails to discipline us when we make wrong choices yet remains faithful and loves us unconditionally.
Today, we are reminded that of God's creatures, we are most loved and regardless of your challenges you can count on God because He is trustworthy, always attentive and concerned about you. Drop your worries. Just Let Go, and Let Him take charge. He loves you soooo much.
The readings invite us, (ME personally ) into the comforting embrace of Jesus, our Shepherd, who knows us deeply and calls us by name.
In the first reading from Acts, Paul and Barnabas share the Good News with passion, even when faced with rejection. It reminds me that following Jesus isn’t always easy; sometimes people won’t understand or accept our faith. But like Paul and Barnabas, we’re called to keep going, trusting that God’s love reaches everyone, no matter the obstacles.
The second reading from Revelation paints a beautiful picture of a countless multitude standing before God, washed clean and filled with joy. The Lamb, Jesus, is their Shepherd, wiping away every tear and leading them to living waters. It’s a reminder that no matter what we go through, struggles, loss, or pain, Jesus is with us, guiding us to a place of peace and eternal care.
In the Gospel from John, Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” These words feel so personal.
Sharing my reflection based on the three readings.
These readings highlight themes of:
Inclusivity and Mission: In Acts, Paul and Barnabas turn to the Gentiles after facing rejection from the Jews, symbolizing the expansion of God's message beyond traditional boundaries
Shepherding and Guidance: In John, Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd who gives eternal life and guides his followers. Similarly, in Revelation, the Lamb is depicted as a shepherd guiding the multitude to springs of living water.
Perseverance and Joy: Despite facing persecution, Paul and Barnabas remain steadfast, and the disciples are filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.
Reflection questions:
- How do these readings challenge me to share God's message with others, especially those outside my usual circles?
- In what ways do I experience Jesus as my Good Shepherd, guiding me through life's challenges?
- How can I cultivate joy and perseverance in the face of adversity, trusting in God's guidance and presence?
