Fourth Sunday of Easter – Cycle A
Reflecting on John 10: 1-10
Several years ago, while driving near Shepherd’s Field, a shout went out from some of the pilgrims. “Stop the bus! There is an actual shepherd! And actual sheep!” And we all jumped off and took photographs of the bemused shepherds, who must find it odd that strangers find their occupation so fascinating.
That’s how out of touch we are with the rural images which Jesus uses so richly. By spotting an actual shepherd with actual sheep―and just outside of Bethlehem, no less―we city-dwelling, 21st century urbanites desperate for a connection with Jesus were thrilled to the core.
Who knows how much we are missing when we read the gospels, and Jesus’ beautiful images which were so familiar to his audience, and so unfamiliar to us? And because we miss so much of the shepherd imagery we miss this beautiful piece: Jesus is not only the Shepherd, but he’s the Gate to the sheepfold too.
That means that Jesus protects us as a devoted shepherd protects his sheep. Once they are in the sheepfold, he lays down next to the entrance and his body serves as the gate. If there is danger, his sheep hide behind him. If marauders do get in the sheepfold, they do it only over the shepherd’s dead body.
We should all experience that kind of love. We should all know, from the womb, that we are safe. We should be born into a world anxious to protect and love us. We should not fear armies gathering at our borders, or bombs, or ferry boats.
The world is a dangerous place. Hide yourself in Jesus, the Shepherd of your soul.
In what ways do you feel safe in God’s love?
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