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4th Sunday Easter (C)
Acts 13:14, 43-52
The reading summarizes Paul and Barnabas’s first missionary journey to Pisidian Antioch in Galatia. They initially preach to the Jews, but after facing rejection, they shift their focus to the Gentiles, fulfilling Jesus’ mandate (Acts 1:8). Their message receives a positive response at first (v43), but some Jews oppose them due to their success (v45). Paul explains these events through scriptural prophecy (Is 49:6; Acts 9:15), highlighting the divine plan behind it. The Gentiles widely accept the message while Jewish opposition intensifies, leading to Paul and Barnabas shaking the dust from their feet as a sign of separation (v51). This illustrates the idea that the Gentile mission flourishes due to Jewish rejection (Rom 11:11f).
Responsorial Psalm Ps 100
this hymn speaks of Yahweh as the benevolent provider of Israel. All the earth is invited to join in the joyful liturgy (v2) in giving thanks for the kindness shown to God’s chosen people- God’s election of his people as well as his steadfast love and fidelity as a result of the covenant (vv3, 5).
Rev 7:9, 14-17
The text describes John’s second vision of salvation (v9), focusing on a diverse multitude from all nations before the enthroned Lamb, Christ. This vision contrasts with the first (vv1-8), which detailed the elect of Israel. Written during Roman persecution, the vision highlights those who endured trials, as noted by one of the twenty-four elders (v13). The imagery of washing garments in blood reflects apocalyptic symbolism (v14), signifying the interior purification through baptism and Christ’s redemption.
The Lamb shares the throne with God (v17), receiving equal worship, symbolizing his role as both redeemer and shepherd. He liberates his people, akin to the Passover lamb (Ex 12:1 – 11), and nurtures them like a shepherd. The “life-giving water” mentioned is the Spirit’s water, signifying spiritual life. The suffering of the elect has ended, with God comforting and guiding them.
John 10:27-30
The early church faced persecution and internal challenges from false teachers. The end of the shepherd discourse encourages the believer in the presence of these hardships, emphasizing the close relationship between Christ and His followers, which begins with a Spirit-filled life that continues into eternity (vv27f; Jn 6:40). Believers need not fear external threats, as the Father’s protective power ensures they remain secure in Christ’s grasp (the hand of the Father and the Son here become one, vv28f). The unity between the Father and Jesus is highlighted, reflecting their inseparable relationship.
Today, we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday. In the three-year liturgical cycle, we explore the shepherd discourse in the Gospel of John (chapter 10) through three different themes: Christ as the sheep gate (A), Christ as the model shepherd (B), and the care of the flock (C). Today’s Gospel emphasizes the Christian response to Christ, which involves a willingness to hear His voice and follow His lead.
May we truly listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd (just as the Cardinals did in the election of Pope Leo XIV) as we choose our leaders in the political exercise this Monday. Only then can we be true followers of the Good Shepherd. Amen.
