By Naresh Namindla csc
Readings: Acts 4: 8-12, 1 Jn 3: 1-2 & Jn 10: 11-18
We celebrate the 4th Sunday of Easter as the Sunday of the good shepherd. Today’s gospel reading makes a difference between the good shepherd and a hired hand. The good shepherd knows each one of his own personally. He always protects them, even at the danger of losing his own life. Whereas the hired hand stands for himself, and protects himself when the danger or risk of losing life occurs.
Jesus himself proclaims that he is the Good Shepherd and lays down his life for the sheep. Jesus did lay down his life for us all to grant us salvation. He gives his authority of being a good shepherd to his disciples.
In today’s first reading the disciples cured a man at temple proving the attitude of a good shepherd. Interestingly disciples did not project themselves, when people asked in what name they did it. Instead, they proclaimed the name of the risen Lord. Disciples believed and trusted in the risen Lord who was present with them always. The disciples trusted that the name of Jesus has a power to heal people. As Christians we are called to experience the love and care of a good shepherd, for he never forsakes us.