Easter 4 (year A)- The Good Shepherd- John 10:10

The theme for this Sunday is Christ the Good Shepherd, and this has been a theme during the Easter season for many centuries. The theme is especially appropriate at this time. We need to be reminded about the spiritual dangers of earthly life, but we also need the comfort of Christ. Jesus is our Good Shepherd who truly cares for us and leads us to the best places. Our Lord's death and resurrection are the highest expressions of His shepherding. He has died to save us from evil and destruction, and He has risen so that we "may have life and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). We rejoice and continue to give thanks for His protection and guidance!

Easter (year A)

The early morning Gospel for Easter is from John 20. In this passage, we see three different reactions to the empty tomb. At first, Mary Magdalene is afraid and distressed, and Simon Peter is uncertain and hesitant. Only the beloved disciple, John, has a truly positive reaction. John 20:8 tells us, "... he saw and believed." Faith is the most desirable reaction to the empty tomb. It is the appropriate response to the predictions Jesus had made and to the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. Faith that Jesus Christ, the crucified Redeemer, has overcome sin, death, and the devil is the source of any real hope for human existence. Such faith is our hope!