Eastertide 4th Sunday May 11 2025
John 10: 11-18 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. 17 The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
John 10: 27-30 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
On this 4th Sunday of Eastertide, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, we are reminded of the tender and guiding love of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of His deep care for His flock, His willingness to lay down His life for them, and His intimate knowledge of each of His sheep. This image of the Good Shepherd calls us to reflect on the ways we listen to His voice amidst the noise of the world. Are we attuned to His guidance? Do we trust in His path even when it seems uncertain?
As we journey through Eastertide, celebrating the Resurrection, we are encouraged to embrace the reassurance that Christ, our Shepherd, walks with us in every moment—offering protection, comfort, and abundant life. Let us remember that we are not alone; we are part of His flock, called to share His love and compassion with others.
Prayer for the 4th Sunday of Eastertide
Lord Jesus, You are the Good Shepherd who knows us by name and gave Your life for us. Thank You for Your unfailing love, protection, and guidance. Help us to recognize Your voice amidst the noise of this world and to follow You faithfully. Strengthen our trust in Your promises, knowing that no one can snatch us from Your hand. May we always find peace in Your presence and live as reflections of Your love. Amen.