🙏 SUNDAY INSIGHTS - 4TH SUNDAY OF EASTER 🙏

First Reading - Acts 13:14,43-52

Second Reading - Apocalypse 7:9,14-17 

Gospel - John 10:27-30

We all long for guidance, protection, and a sense of belonging. Today’s readings assure us that we are not alone on our journey—Jesus, the Good Shepherd, walks with us. He knows us personally, calls us by name, and promises that no one can snatch us from his hand. The central theme of today’s liturgy is the comfort and assurance we find in Christ, our Shepherd and Guide.

In the Gospel, Jesus presents himself as the Good Shepherd. He says, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.” This image speaks of deep intimacy and security. The shepherd knows each sheep individually; he calls them, protects them, and leads them to life. Jesus promises that those who belong to him will never perish. This is not just a poetic expression—it is a profound truth: in Jesus, we are safe. Our lives, with all their uncertainties, are held firmly in the loving hands of God.

The second reading from the book of Revelation presents a beautiful vision of those who have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb. These are the faithful—those who have persevered in following the Shepherd through suffering and trials. They now stand before God's throne, where “the Lamb will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water.” It is a reversal of roles—the Lamb who was slain becomes the Shepherd. This vision reminds us that our faithfulness in following Christ will lead us to eternal peace and joy, where every tear will be wiped away.

The first reading from Acts shows us the contrast between rejection and acceptance of the Good Shepherd. Paul and Barnabas preach the word of God, but not all welcome it. While some oppose them, others rejoice and are filled with the Holy Spirit. This teaches us that even when we follow the Shepherd faithfully, not everyone will understand or support us. But we are not to be discouraged. Those who listen and believe are filled with joy and the Holy Spirit, for they have heard the voice of the Shepherd and followed it.

Dear friends, we are not lost sheep. We belong to the flock of Christ. He speaks to us through his Word, the Church, the Sacraments, and the quiet voice in our hearts. But we must listen. The challenge of discipleship is not just to belong outwardly but to hear his voice and follow him daily. In a world full of competing voices, the Shepherd’s voice must become our guide. Sometimes this voice will lead us through valleys of suffering, like the faithful in Revelation, but he will never abandon us. He walks with us and leads us to life.

Let us take comfort in the promise of Jesus: *“No one can snatch them out of my hand.”* We are secure in his love. We are guided by his wisdom. We are called to follow with trust and confidence, knowing that our Shepherd leads us not just in this life, but into eternal life.

May we always listen to his voice and walk confidently under his loving care.