Sunday May 11th

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Gospel Reading John 10:27-30

All the readings, in one way or another, point to being disciples of Jesus.  Paul and Barnabas are teaching in Greece.  They find opposition from the leaders of the Jews.  Paul’s response is, that they were sent to preach to the Gentiles because the Jews, who were the first to hear God’s Word, refused to accept and believe.  To Hear the Voice of the Good Shepherd  Once again they are thrown out of the town.  Paul and Barnabas shake the dust from their feet.  They do not give up or allow the ill temper of these people, to keep them from doing God’s Work.  They move on to the next town.  The Book of Revelations gives us a picture of how believers will be rewarded for their faith.  To all who hear and follow the call of the Good Shepherd, the promise of life to the full is given here in this life and eternal life in the company of the Blessed.   The Father has given the disciples to Jesus and no one can take them away.  He and the Father are one. What a great calling each of us has!  At the same time, we have the gift of free will to respond “yes” or “no.”  It is indeed a great gift.  Listen to these scripture readings with open hearts. Allow your heart to be filled with the Holy Spirit.  How will you respond to Jesus’ invitation to come and follow Him?  Do so now.