The Fourth Sunday of Easter always brings us back to images of shepherding. It’s often called “Good Shepherd Sunday,” and every year we’re invited into these pastoral, almost idyllic images (green pastures, safety, guidance, care).
In the first reading, Peter, the head of the Apostles, played his pastoral role very well. By the power of the Holy Spirit, he spoke on behalf of the rest. Of course, his speech was a great success. This is because it led to the most significant conversion of souls ever recorded in the history of humankind in a single. That is, three thousand converts!
The lesson here is quite simple. A shepherd who prepares himself and works with the Holy Spirit will become a powerful instrument of conversion in God’s hands. God knew that Peter was prepared and capable, so he gave him a great harvest of souls.
Also, in his pastoral letter from our second reading today, Peter further reminds us that to be a good shepherd, one must endure ordeals as Christ did for the sake of his flock. He was not selfish or neglected his duty. Instead, he persisted and gave everything for the good of his flock: “Christ suffered for you and left an example for you to follow. He was bearing our faults in his own body on the cross.”
These are the qualities of a good shepherd. The good shepherd offers everything for the sake of his flock. He does not believe in half measures. For him, it is either all or nothing. We must imitate Christ, the good shepherd who dared the devil to save us. We must say like Christ, “I will.” Lord, let me take care of the sick, the orphans, the weak, the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed. Lord, let me fight for their course. Let me be their light, hope, pride, and shepherd.
As good shepherds, each one of us has a responsibility towards someone. We must not abandon this responsibility to the detriment of our flock. Today’s celebration reminds us that we ought to be contrasted to “Circular shepherds” of our time who exploit their flock.