Gospel for April 26 2026 – John 10:1-10
Gospel Reflections for April 26 2026
Be a Shepherd …not a sheep.
Jesus mentions sheep in today’s Gospel …but they are not you!
Everyone knew that sheep are timid and easily frightened. They follow their shepherd closely because they feel helpless and unable to care for themselves or fight against wolves. They want a strong shepherd. Well, Jesus is that strong Good Shepherd who has the best interests of His sheep at heart and bravely leads them to good food and water …even if wolves are nearby!
The sheep recognize His voice and wise leadership. They know Jesus is that Good Shepherd who is always compassionate to His sheep and always courageous facing danger.
When Jesus said to His disciples, “Follow me,” He did not mean to follow Him as timid sheep but rather to follow Him …in His role as Shepherd! Jesus does not call you to be sheep …He calls you to be a shepherd. It is the Shepherd we imitate, not the sheep.
Many of you are in a position of influence over others, whether in your family, among friends, classmates, neighbors, fellow workers, or social media contacts. Think how they will feel if they sense that you always have their authentic best interests at heart, and compassionately lead them to what is good and courageously defend them from anything bad. They will want to follow you!
Our nation has many contentious issues now, such as the wars in Iran and Ukraine, and always the highly combative politics. Jesus wants you to be that calm, wise, and confident leader in troubled times. Good shepherds bring the wisdom of Jesus to each of these events. (see my new article “Is the Iran War a Just War?” and other moral issues at daveheney.com in the Articles section)
I know we have great shepherds at St. Bruno, in our Religious Education program that is leading almost 200 children to soon receive First Communion, and has already brought 120 young people to the Sacrament of Confirmation, and at St. Bruno School that everyday teaches over 360 students important lessons for life in each grade level.
Despite all the violence in Our Lord’s time, He calmly called His followers to be leaders, never be frightened by wolves, and calmly lead their family and friends to that happy way of life that is the Kingdom of God. That is your calling today as well.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
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