4TH SUNDAY HOMILY OF THE EASTER (GOOD SHEPHERD) — YEAR C
4TH SUNDAY HOMILY OF THE EASTER (GOOD SHEPHERD) — YEAR C
HOMILY THEME: Jesus our caring and guiding Shepherd. Let us continue Sharing the Voice of this Good Shepherd!
BY: Fr Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
Acts 13:14,43-52; Rev.7:9,14-17; John 10:27-30
INTRODUCTION
My dear friends in Christ, today we celebrate the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday or The Vocation Sunday. This special day focuses on Jesus as our caring and guiding Shepherd. Through the readings, we learn about the importance of hearing His voice, spreading the Good News, and the inclusive call to follow Him.
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OUR FIRST READING IS ABOUT SHARING THE VOICE OF JESUS AS OUR GOOD SHEPHERD
In our first reading, Paul and Barnabas faced many challenges, but they did not give up. They understood that people needed to hear about Jesus to follow Him. Their commitment inspires us to be brave in our faith and to share it with others, even when it is difficult.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM OUR FIRST READING?
In this reading, we learn about the boldness of Paul and Barnabas in spreading the Good News about Jesus. Their example shows us the importance of sharing the message of the Good Shepherd. Just as they spoke courageously, we too must be willing to share the Good News so others can hear Jesus’ voice.
OUR SECOND READING IS ABOUT THE INCLUSIVE CALL OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
In our second reading, a great multitude stands before God. This vision shows us that salvation is offered to everyone. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, wants all people to follow Him, not just a select few.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM OUR SECOND READING?
In the past, hearing God’s voice was a privilege for priests and prophets. But Jesus changes this. He calls everyone to hear His voice and follow Him. His message is for all people, no matter who they are or where they come from. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, knows each of us by name. He cares for us and guides us on the right path. When we listen to His voice, we find the way to true peace and happiness.
OUR GOSPEL READING IS ABOUT JESUS OUR GUIDING SHEPHERD
This gospel passage today, happens before the resurrection. Jesus and His disciples are in Jerusalem for Hanukkah. During Hanukkah, a reading from the Book of Numbers, where Moses hears God’s voice (Numbers 7:89), is traditional. So, it makes sense that Jesus would talk about His sheep hearing His voice.
WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOK NUMBERS IN LINE WITH THE GOSPEL OF TODAY?
In the Book of Numbers, only Moses hears God’s voice. But Jesus brings a new message. He wants everyone, not just priests and prophets, to hear Him. This shows His love and care for all people.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM THE GOSPEL READING OF TODAY?
God is speaking to us, but we need to listen. The noise and distractions of the world can make it hard to hear Him. We must find quiet times and places to focus on His message. In these moments of silence, we can hear Jesus guiding us.
CONCLUSION
On this beautiful and important Good Shepherd Sunday, we are reminded of the following;
1. The call to spread the Good News. By sharing Jesus’ message, we help others join His flock. Just as Paul and Barnabas did, let us be bold in our mission to bring the Good Shepherd’s voice to everyone.
2. The inclusive love of Jesus. He reaches out to all of us, inviting us to be part of His flock. By following Him, we join the great multitude standing before God, united in faith and love.
3. Jesus as our Good Shepherd. He knows us, loves us, and calls us to follow Him. By listening to His voice, we can find the path to eternal life.
I wish everyone a blessed Good Shepherd Sunday
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