Fourth Sunday of Easter
Lectionary: 51 (NAB Translation)
Sunday Says
Reading 1
ACTS 13:14, 43-52
This week’s first reading from the book of Acts of the Apostles picks up in an exciting time for the Church. Paul and Barnabas bring almost an entire population of Gentiles to hear the Gospel, but it strikes anger and jealousy into the hearts of the local Jews. Paul reminds them that it was their right to hear it first, but once they had rejected it, he had the obligation to take to all people. Like the Gentiles, this news should give us hope that no one is outside of God’s mercy if we listen.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 5
- (3c) We are his people, the sheep of his flock.
Reading 2
Revelation 7:9, 14B-17
This week’s continuation in the book of Revelations, we hear of the vision of Martyrs marked by their palms in hand and robed in white before the Lord. Those that paid the ultimate sacrifice were given a high reward. When John wrote this book, there was a strong need for courage in dangerous times, and now when the world is getting darker, we too are in need of encouragement. The Christian life cannot lose.
Gospel
John 10:27-30
This week’s Gospel from St. John is one of the shortest of the year, and it is different compared to the past few weeks when we have seen some of the longest of the year. Jesus shows Himself as united to His father through obedience to His will, and reveals that we can be united to Him through obedience to His word. Jesus reveals how He is the key connection to this new relationship to the Father. We can trust in Him.
Gospel meditation from Bishop Vásquez
Reflection question
Likening us to sheep, Jesus says we belong to Him and his Father and He gives us the promise of eternal life. In this Year of Mercy, share this promise of eternal life with someone who needs to hear it.
