Fourth Sunday of Easter [A]

April 26, 2026

John 10:1-10

Living in a modern and secular world, we are often confronted with the reality that those closest to us—our children, relatives, and friends—no longer believe that religion and religious activities are important. How do we respond to this with love, and how does Jesus, our Good Shepherd, provide an answer to this difficult situation?

First, we must recognize the source of our suffering. We want the best for those we love, and nothing is better for them than eternal life. Knowing that they live far from Jesus endangers their souls, and this is deeply painful for us. This awareness is crucial; it shows that our concern stems from genuine love, not a desire to control.

Since love inspires us, we must approach them with love. The first step is to understand that their rejection of religious life stems from unique reasons, which are often hidden. Some people reject religion because they believe that faith contradicts common sense, making it irrelevant in the modern world. Others no longer go to church because of painful past experiences with church leaders. Some simply want to maintain a “free” lifestyle that does not align with biblical teachings, while others are influenced by their environment or friends who have led them into misunderstandings about faith.

Furthermore, we can learn from the way the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep. The Good Shepherd guides with a firm voice, but never through coercion or violence. He walks ahead of His flock, leading by example. He cares for each of His sheep, knowing them by name and recognizing their unique characteristics. When danger approaches, He proves His love not by sacrificing the sheep, but by sacrificing His own life.

Like the Good Shepherd, we need to show care by listening to their stories and struggles. We must not come to judge, but to be respectful and trusted partners in dialogue. At the same time, we need to remain firm in our convictions, confident in the truth of our faith, and aware of the dangers of worldly desires. Most importantly, we must lead by example. We become living witnesses of our faith when we practice what we preach. Ultimately, we demonstrate that our faith is meaningful because it inspires us to stand by them when life becomes difficult, ready to sacrifice our time, energy, and even our lives for them.

Some may need logical answers about our faith, which means we must continue to learn more about it ourselves. Others need healing from past wounds, and we must be true companions on their journey home. All of this requires us to sacrifice our time, energy, and even our lives. Yet, we do so willingly because we truly love them and desire their eternal salvation.

Finally, we must remember that we are not the Good Shepherd; we are His sheep trying to shepherd other sheep. In the end, we may face failure, and it may feel as though our sacrifices are in vain. However, this must not cause us to lose hope. Instead, we must surrender everything to the true Good Shepherd. We have heard His voice, and by faithfully following Him, we will find our rest.

Rome

Valentinus Bayuhadi Ruseno, OP

Guiding Questions:

Am I truly listening to understand their unique struggles, or am I quick to judge and want to control? Do my daily actions reflect the compassion of the Good Shepherd? Do my patience, empathy, and willingness to sacrifice show those I love the positive and life-giving impact of my faith? When my efforts to help someone seem to fail and I feel discouraged, do I allow myself to fall into despair, or do I actively choose to entrust them to the true Good Shepherd?