Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time • Year C
Today’s gospel is considered a “little apocalypse.” It is the beginning of Jesus’ discourse on the end of life. But apocalypse is really all about the resurrection. Pope Leo and our readings these days remind us how important the resurrection is, not only ecclesially and spiritually, but also emotionally and psychologically. It lifts our spirits as well as our belief and gives us focus to continue the journey with him. Our readings today are a clarion call to perseverance, focus, and faithfulness to the mission entrusted to us, no matter what.
Fourth Sunday of Easter • Year B
But Jesus gives us an example of a good shepherd. That is our call to relationship with Christ and through him, with the Father. The good shepherd commits to sacrifice for the sake of others, which of course we understand that Christ has done for us. But we are called to emulate that in our lives. St. Augustine, in his commentary on this gospel, would tell us, “whoever enters the sheepfold (the church), let them enter and preach the true Christ, and not only let him/her preach the true Christ, but also seek Christ’s glory, not their own. By seeking their own glory they have scattered Christ’s sheep instead of gathering them.” That is the challenge we are to consider as we reflect on today’s gospel.