4/23/2024 (Tuesday) Today’s gospel reading: John 10:22-30

22 And it was the feast of the dedication at Jerusalem: and it was winter.
23 And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch.
24 The Jews, therefore, came round about him, and said to him: How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.
25 Jesus answered them: I speak to you, and you believe not: the works that I do in the name of my Father, they give testimony of me.
26 But you do not believe, because you are not of my sheep.
27 My sheep hear my voice: and I know them, and they follow me.
28 And I give them life everlasting; and they shall not perish forever, and no man shall pluck them out of my hand.
29 That which my Father has given me, is greater than all: and no one can snatch them out of the hand of my Father.
30 I and the Father are one.

4/23/2024 (Tuesday) Today’s gospel reflection / homily / sermon: John 10:22-30

In this gospel reading, we find a profound message of assurance and belonging that resonates deeply, especially in times of uncertainty and fear. As Jesus walks in the temple during the Feast of Dedication, He is surrounded by people seeking clarity about His identity. In response, Jesus offers a powerful declaration of security and eternal promise that extends to each of us today.

Jesus proclaims, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” These words are not just a declaration of His power but a profound reassurance of His unbreakable commitment to those who believe in Him. The imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is vivid and comforting—He is a protector, a guide, and a caretaker who knows His sheep by name and cherishes each one deeply.

What does it mean to be a sheep in His fold? It means to recognize His voice amidst the noise of the world and to follow Him with trust and confidence. It means being secure in the knowledge that His love is steadfast and His strength is unparalleled. When Jesus speaks of no one being able to snatch His sheep from His hand, He speaks to His divine ability to protect and preserve, to His ultimate sovereignty over all that would seek to harm.

In this passage, we are invited to reflect on the strength of our relationship with Jesus. Are we tuned into His voice? Are we following where He leads? The security He promises is not just protection in this life, but the eternal safeguarding of our souls.

As you walk through your daily life, remember the strength and safety found in being one of Jesus’s sheep. In Him, you have a refuge that is impregnable, a guide whose direction is always towards everlasting peace and joy. In the fold of the Good Shepherd, you are known, you are loved, and you are eternally secured.

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