The Nazareth Page- A gospel meditation for your home

May 11, 2025 – Fourth Sunday of Easter, John 10:27-30 

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Today is called “Good Shepherd Sunday.” The gospel today is quite brief, but its meaning is huge. Jesus likens himself to a good shepherd who enjoys a close and caring relationship to his sheep. That includes us!

Sheep can feel the care and protection of their shepherd simply by his presence near them. Close relationships create feelings of safety and security. Such is also the way we are invited to think of God, the One who created us, sustains us, and is with us always.

As I write about today’s gospel, like so many around the world I have in mind the recent death of Pope Francis. In the many interviews that accompanied his passing, we hear repeatedly how he touched so many with authentic gestures of love and concern. He wanted to be close to his flock. He too was a good shepherd, and we have been blessed by his presence and leadership of the church.

I was especially impressed with his continuous concern for all, but especially those who were living in dangerous straits. Like immigrants seeking safety from all kinds of threats, the poor and starving and those caught in the middle of wars. He welcomed those who felt alone and forgotten.

There was nothing artificial or inauthentic about the way Pope Francis related to others. His smile was clearly honest and not just as we say, “for the cameras.” He was clearly a good shepherd, perhaps one of the best. (Although he would likely admit to discomfort over such a claim.)

And he shows all of us better ways to live our lives – to the end. Imagine, on the day before he died, he wanted to be with his “flock.” He went out to greet those who had gathered at the Vatican to bless them and perhaps (who knows what he was really thinking) bid them a temporary farewell. See you all later, perhaps he thought. He was joyful to the end, not asking for special favors or acclaim.

He wanted to be with those gathered around St. Peter’s. One last time, perhaps thinking this final public appearance was a prelude to his moving to what we call “the communion of saints.” And when he arrived there with God, he likely said don’t call me pope anymore. I am simply one of you. A brother. A companion, A friend.  

David M. Thomas, PhD