SOCL, Easter4B

Sunday April 21, 2024

I am the good shepherd

See

You know that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when someone's got your back? That's what the Good Shepherd picture in the Bible is all about. It's like having the ultimate friend who's always there for you, no matter what life throws your way.

But here's the plot twist: regular shepherds don't usually risk it all for their sheep. That's where Jesus comes in. He's not your average shepherd – He's the one who's willing to lay down His life for you. It's like going from feeling all cozy to being mind-blown.

So next time you're feeling lost or facing tough times, remember: You've got a Shepherd who's not just there to comfort you, but who's ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for you. That's a love story that'll never get old.

Listen

Acts 4:8-12; Psalm 118 (117); 1 John 3:1-2; John 10:11-18

Reflect

(John 10:11-18)

-You know how there's a big difference between a casual friend and a bestie who really gets you? What changes have you noticed in your relationships as you got to know and love each other more? What was it like to go through that transformation?

-In the story, the good shepherd is willing to "lay down his life" for his sheep. When have you gone above and beyond for someone you care about, like a friend, parent, partner, or sibling? Or when has someone done that for you?

-The parable also suggests that relationships shouldn't be exclusive, but inclusive. Have you ever experienced the saying, "Love shared is love multiplied"? How did it feel?

-The Good Shepherd chooses to lay down his life freely. Sometimes, when others need us, we might feel trapped or obligated to help them out of duty or guilt. We can become like hired workers who do the job without really caring. Have you ever felt both ways – caring for others because you had to, and because you wanted to? What was the difference when you chose to care, even when you didn't have much choice?

-What do these experiences of love and care in your own relationships tell you about how much God loves you?

Pray

Loving Father, you call us to love one another as the Good Shepherd loves his sheep. We thank you for the relationships that allow us to experience and share your love. Help us cultivate deep and authentic bonds, where mutual care and generous self-giving are signs of your presence. May we, inspired by Christ's example, be willing to "lay down our lives" for others, serving with joy and freedom. May our love expand and strengthen as we share it, creating an ever-wider and more inclusive community. Grant us the grace to choose to love even when it is difficult, knowing that in doing so, we reveal your face. May we discover the depth of your love for us in every gesture of affection and sacrifice for others.

Act

-Practice Sacrificial Love: Look for ways to make sacrifices for others, whether it's giving your time, comfort, or forgiveness.

-Lead with Care: Be an empathetic leader in your relationships and community, guiding with compassion and understanding.

-Find Spiritual Reassurance: Seek comfort and solace through prayer, meditation, or connecting with a supportive community in difficult times.

References

-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2024, April 21). Fourth Sunday of Easter. USCCB. https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042124.cfm

-Sunday readings. (n.d.-s). Hearers of the Word. https://www.tarsus.ie/SundayReadings/