Fourth Sunday of Easter

 

Here are the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Easter , April 21, 2013:

Acts of the Apostles 13: 14, 43-52
Psalm 100: 1-3, 5
Revelation 7:9, 14b-17
John 10: 27-30

 
One of the most ancient and prevalent images of Jesus Christ among early Christians was that of the Good Shepherd.  A professional shepherd was well acquainted with his sheep, understanding the personality, strengths and foibles of each one, and personally concerned for their welfare. A hired hand would likely not have the inclination or investment to really care that much, or put themselves in harm's way to save an animal.

It's tough for us to accept being called 'sheep', though. I can tell you from recent experience on our Ireland pilgrimage that sheep can be smelly! And they don't have a reputation for brilliance. (Although gamboling lambs ARE irresistibly cute)  But in Jesus' day and culture, sheep were regarded as honorable animals. In that culture, an honorable man would suffer in silence,  protecting one's honor even to death, if necessary. They noticed that sheep being shorn or being prepared for slaughter did not cry out (see Isaiah 53:7) and so transferred that notion of honor to them.

What does that mean for us?  Not that we simply suffer in silence, but that we might contemplate the relationship between a good shepherd, a true leader, and the sheep s/he tends. If you know that you are looked after, cared for, and well-known by one entirely commited to your welfare, what does that mean for your ability to trust in God's Word and promises?

Mystagogia contiues this Sunday at 10:45am.
Inquiry will be on Tuesday, April 23.