Scripture:
Acts 2:14a, 36-41
1 Peter 2:20b-25
John 10:1-10
Reflection:
At this moment of the Easter season the question to us is do we hear the voice of the true shepherd? Do we hear Jesus calling us by name? Do we see him walking ahead of us? Do we follow him? Do we realize that only he is the gate to God’s blessings? Have we come to know that he leads us to green pastures and restful waters? Yes, he spreads the table before us, anoints our head with fragrant oil, and our cup overflows.
Even when there is pain, disappointment and struggle (the dark valley) he gives us the courage and strength to get through it. By his wounds we have been healed. There is nothing to fear for he is always at our side. He is the guardian of our souls.
All this is summed up when Jesus said: "I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.
In twelve more days, May 27th, I will thankfully remember fifty years of priesthood. It will be a quiet and reflective day. Yes, there will be public celebrations on other days, but this day will mark the milestone. So many times preaching God’s word, so many Masses offered, so often being an instrument of God’s forgiveness, administering baptisms, celebrating weddings, and the anointings of the sick. Truly, an abundant life is offered to all. Count your own blessings.
Fr. Michael Hoolahan, C.P. is on the staff of Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center, Sierra Madre, California.