Wanted . . . Good Shepherds
Fourth Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:8–12 / Psalm 118:22 / 1 John 3:1–2 / John 10:11–18
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Reflecting on the Word
By Rev. James A. Wallace, C.Ss.R.
Peter is a wonderful example of someone growing into the role of a good shepherd. His calling was evident from the beginning, when Jesus summoned him and his brother Andrew while they were casting their nets into the sea: “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of [people]” (Mark 1:17).
We know Peter as the first to confess Jesus as Messiah, but also as someone who did not understand what this would mean both for Jesus and his followers: the cross. We know Peter was not afraid to ask questions along the lines of “What are we going to get out of being disciples?” or even say the wrong thing (“You shall never wash my feet!”). And, perhaps most importantly, we know Peter folded when the chips were down, denying he ever knew Jesus.
This same Peter boldly preaches Jesus as raised by God for the salvation of all who believe. He preaches not only outside the upper room on Pentecost, but in the synagogue soon after, then twice before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem), and finally in the house of the Roman centurion Cornelius.
What explains this transformation from denying follower to charismatic leader? Paul tells us in one of his letters (1 Corinthians 15:5) that the risen Lord appeared to Kephas (the Aramaic name for Peter). And Luke records the descent of the Spirit upon those in the upper room (Acts 2:4). All of this reminds us that God’s power at work in us is the key to having and being a good shepherd.
Consider/Discuss
- From the beginning, Jesus the Good Shepherd has called others to shepherd in his name. Have you known any good shepherds in your life?
- Do you pray for those called to shepherd God’s people?
Responding to the Word
Loving Jesus, you have called many people to shepherd your faithful. We pray for them today, most especially our Holy Father, and all of our bishops, the bishop of this diocese, and all men and women in positions of leadership. Grant them wisdom and give them the gifts needed to guide your people.