THE SELFLESS LOVE OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD

Homily for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year B

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Scripture Texts: Acts 4:7-12; 1 John 3:1-2; John 10:11-18

Today is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. This Sunday is traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday as well as a day designated to pray for vocations for all Christians. The Gospel reading for this Sunday usually focuses on the theme of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, highlighting Jesus’ role as the one who guides, protects, and lays down his life for his sheep. It is a day to reflect on our identity as beloved members of Christ’s flock and our call to follow the example of the Good Shepherd in our own lives by caring for others with love and compassion.

In today’s Gospel passage, we encounter the image of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd. The first thing we are told about Jesus, Good Shepherd is that he willingly lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11). The role of a shepherd in ancient Palestine was to guide, protect, and provide for his sheep, often at great personal risk. Jesus goes beyond this conventional understanding by proclaiming his willingness to lay down his life for the sake of his flock. This statement encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ mission on earth - to offer himself as a sacrifice for the redemption and salvation of humanity. 

Throughout the Gospel passage, Jesus contrasts the actions of the good shepherd with those of the hired man. While the good shepherd is invested in the well-being of his sheep and is willing to sacrifice himself for their sake, the hired hand lacks genuine concern and abandons the sheep in times of danger. Jesus’ depiction of the hired hand serves as a critique of the religious leaders of his time, who failed to shepherd God’s people with love and integrity; who prioritized self-interest over the welfare of God’s people. Unlike the hireling, the Good Shepherd remains faithful and steadfast, ready to protect his flock at all costs (John 10:12-13).

Jesus further emphasizes the intimate relationship between himself and his followers, likening it to the close bond between a shepherd and his sheep. He declares, “I know my own and my own know me (John 10:15-16).” This statement underscores the personal nature of Jesus’ relationship with his disciples, characterized by mutual recognition, love, trust, and intimacy. The image of sheep knowing their shepherd’s voice reflects the disciples’ ability to discern and respond to Jesus’ teachings and guidance. 

Going further, Jesus declares, “I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So, there will be one flock, one shepherd (John 10:16).” This statement reveals the universal scope of Jesus’ mission - to gather all people into one flock under his loving care. Jesus’ invitation extends to all, transcending barriers of culture, ethnicity, and social status. This message of reconciliation and unity resonates deeply in our today’s world marked by division, hatred, prejudice, and exclusion. As members of Christ’s flock, we are called to embrace a spirit of inclusivity and unity, recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual as beloved children of God. As St. John reminds us in the second reading, we are called children of God, beloved members of Christ’s flock (1 John 3:1).

Lastly, as followers of Christ, we are called to emulate the example of the Good Shepherd in our own lives. Just as Jesus laid down his life for us, we are called to sacrificially love and serve one another, especially the vulnerable and marginalized in our midst. Whether as parents, heads, teachers, political or religious leaders, or friends, we are called to shepherd others with compassion, humility, and selflessness.