Fourth Sunday of Easter

by Fr. Jess Ty  |  05/11/2025  |  Weekly Reflection

Dear Family of God,

What are the Characteristics of a Good Shepherd? Do you know that we are called to imitate Jesus Our Good Shepherd?

A Good Shepherd lays down his life for his sheep. He is ready to make sacrifices for those whom he is responsible for. He values his sheep more than his own life; they are precious to him—that is why he is ready to sacrifice for them.

Here, we can think of Mothers who literally “lay down their lives for their child,” during labor. “The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit” even when they suffered for Christ and His sheep.

A Good Shepherd does not work for pay; he works for the good of the ultimate owner of himself and of his sheep. He trusts in God and is secure in Him and in His gift of eternal life. He is not afraid of physical death and persecution because he knows he belongs to God now and for eternity. Eternal reward is waiting for those who love God, as St. Paul said: “All things work for good for those who love God.” (Romans 8:38).

May we choose to imitate our Lord and be a good Shepherd to all under our care and our neighbors.

Yours in Christ.