Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter, May 12, 2025
Jesus is our Good Shepherd
Acts 11:1-18; Psalm: 41; Jn 10:1-10
Today’s readings offer valuable insights into the nature of God’s love and the inclusion of all people in His kingdom. In today’s first reading, we see how Peter explains to his fellow believers about his experience with the Gentiles and how the Holy Spirit was at work in their lives. This passage reminds us that God’s love is for everyone, regardless of social or cultural differences. It challenges us to break down barriers and embrace all people with the same love and grace that God shows us.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of Himself as the Good Shepherd and emphasizes the importance of entering God’s kingdom through Him. He describes Himself as the gate through which the sheep enter, emphasizing the exclusivity of salvation through Him. This passage serves as a reminder that Jesus is the only way to the Father, and we must follow Him with trust and obedience in order to experience the abundant life He promises.
Reflecting on these passages, we are reminded of the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom and the exclusive path to salvation through Jesus Christ. We are called to love and accept all people, just as God loves and accepts us, regardless of our differences. At the same time, we must also acknowledge Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life, and follow Him faithfully in order to experience the abundant life He offers.
Today’s first reading challenges us to examine our own biases and prejudices and to be open to how the Holy Spirit may be at work in unexpected ways and with unexpected people. It reminds us that God’s love is not limited by our human understanding or boundaries, but is freely given to all who seek Him with a sincere heart.
Today’s Gospel reinforces the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus and entering into His kingdom through Him. It challenges us to reflect on our own commitment to following Him as our Good Shepherd and to trust in His provision for our lives. Jesus promises us abundant life when we follow Him faithfully, staying close to Him and relying on Him for guidance and protection.
In conclusion, today’s readings both offer important lessons for us as Christians. They remind us of the inclusive nature of God’s love and the exclusive path to salvation through Jesus Christ. They challenge us to examine our own hearts and to commit ourselves to following Jesus faithfully in order to experience the abundant life He promises. May we seek to love and accept all people, just as God loves and accepts us, and may we trust in Jesus as our Good Shepherd and follow Him with all our hearts.
