Homily: Fourth Tuesday of Easter
Fourth Tuesday of Easter (John10:22-30) “Who is That?”
When we were children, we probably went outside to play on summer afternoons. Then the time for supper would come. Every child in the neighborhood would be called by their parents and each child responded to the voice they recognized.
The sheep that Jesus describes were the same way. When the shepherd would call the sheep would respond. Each lamb knew their owner’s voice. Even though the sheep were all mixed together by the shepherds at times it made no difference. When each shepherd would call his lambs would come.
We hear many voices in our lives. The voices call us, and each voice has its message. Some voices that are within us batter us with negative messages. Other voices are more reassuring. Some tempt us. Others strengthen us. How do we know what voice belongs to the Lord.
One way to discern the Lord’s voice is to spend time in solitude. Usually when we first retreat to the quiet we will find it hard because the disruptive and negative voice will be loud. Only if we can persevere in the quiet will the voices change as we pray longer. The question is will we enter the silence or not? Will we stay in dialogue with the Lord.
If we do usually the voice that is Jesus’ voice becomes stronger. We hear more clearly, and we find the reassurance that we need. We may not find exact answers to the difficulties of life, but we find new strength.
The voice of the Lord is the voice that lifts us up. The voice of the Good Shepherd is the one that challenges us to do the positive thing. After a while we will find it easier to recognize the Lord’s voice.
Reflection Questions:
Do I find it hard to spend time in silence? Why is that?
How long can I be by myself? Do I enjoy it?
Dear Parishioners,
I would like to thank all those who helped with the celebration of the centennial of our church. The Mass and reception on Sunday were a wonderful time of fellowship for our parish community. I saw a lot of old friends connecting. There were also a lot of reminiscing about life at Sacred Heart through the years.
I think the Franciscan Sisters who were here really were happy to be back. They were an essential part of our history. I look forward to the Sacred Heart reunion this summer. Hopefully, that will be another chance to connect with old friends and new ones.
May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,
Fr. Mark