Fourth Sunday of Easter
“The Father and I are one”
Summary
This week is Good Shepherd Sunday, a day to reflect on what it means to be called to hear Christ’s words and follow him. John 10:22-30 reminds us that we belong to God and, if we belong to God, we also belong to one another, called be part of a community that cares for each other. As God’s flock, we are promised abundant life. Life which is experienced and enjoyed only when we share it with others. This week, as we celebrate the work of Christian Aid, striving to bring abundant life in poor communities across the globe, we commit ourselves to living lives of generosity and love, trusting in Christ’s promises of abundance and faithfulness.
FIRST READING
Acts 9:36-43
In Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter got up and went with them, and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up.” Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up. He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Meanwhile, he stayed in Joppa for some time with a certain Simon, a tanner.
GOSPEL
John 10.22-30
At that time the Festival of the Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered, “I have told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me, but you do not believe because you do not belong to my sheep. My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, in regard to what he has given me, is greater than all, and no one can snatch them out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”
