Fourth Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:8-12 | Ps. 118:1, 8-9, 21-23, 26, 29 | 1 John 3:1-2 | John 10:11-18
John tells us about the Good Shepherd. One of the qualities of this Good Shepherd is that unlike those who are paid, he is willing to go beyond the call of duty. Jesus is willing to go after even one lost sheep regardless of how many others there are in the flock. Finally, He will lay down his life freely for His flock. Peter tells us that the cure of the cripple takes place because it was done in the name of Jesus who laid down his life. The epistle calls us to see the love that God has in calling us children. So the Good Shepherd, Jesus, was sent to bring us, God’s children, into the Kingdom. Jesus’ love for us is so strong that He will come after us no matter where we are, how we stray, or for what reasons. We are the pearls of great price. What a wonderful image of God’s love!
How does it feel to know that Jesus is coming after you? Have you ever thought of the depth of God’s love for you? Hear Jesus, the Good Shepherd, call you by name. Allow yourself to stay with that feeling for awhile. What will you do as a result of this prayer?