Good morning good people,
May the Risen Lord give you peace.
It is 12th May 2025. We reflect on Acts 11:1-18 and Jn 10:1-10.
St. Augustine, “The Church is not a museum of saints but a hospital for sinners.”
Pastoral shepherding begins with personal conversion and a sincere openness to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is not reserved for a select few; He is poured out upon all flesh. When we truly believe that the Holy Spirit can dwell in anyone, we begin to witness miracles of conversion, healing, and unity.
In today’s first reading, we see the infant Church expanding beyond its Jewish roots. The Word of God was embraced by those once considered outsiders. This moment of divine inclusion marked a turning point—doors of acceptance and tolerance swung open, making the structure of the Church accessible to all. Peter is criticized for associating with the Gentiles. Jesus, the gate is open for all. The voice of the Shepherd echoes far beyond our cognitive and spiritual fences.
Jesus is that door. “I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So, there will be one flock, one shepherd.” (John 10:16)
But whenever we elevate ourselves and look down on others, we instinctively build walls rather than open gates. God, in His mercy, has already provided access—through Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.
No one else is the gate—Jesus alone is the gate and the way. Through Him alone we enter into abundant life. The key to that life is recognizing His voice amidst the noise of false shepherds. “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10).
We who act on behalf of God need to be open, in communion with the others and to be the examples of hope and love. With the sense of faith, we can become the gate that guides not just guarding.
By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we sharpen our ability to discern the Shepherd’s voice. We reject the false gatekeepers who lead us away from God.
May the Lord bless us with the grace to lead others gently to Christ, by listening daily to the Holy Spirit and guiding others to do the same.
Have a lovely and grace-filled day. God bless you.