Tuesday, April 15

By Nancy Hylton of Seattle, Washington, USA

I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 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. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again.

—John 10: 14–17

Because the Sunday-morning speaker was ill and could not preach, the presider shared spontaneously. She had been pondering what we could learn from Jesus during that week before Good Friday and Easter. She related her experiences as the child of a sheepherder.

She shared about the meaning of “sheepfold,” the high walls meant to protect the sheep from predators in the night. Her father had a special call that all the sheep knew. Because sheep are followers, when he called them to the fold, they would follow him.

At least, most of them would follow. Often a stubborn little sheep would be eating grass and not feel like going. So he was left behind. Because he was alone, the stubborn sheep soon would begin “crying” for the shepherd.

What a genuine metaphor our Lord used! How often I have been like that stubborn sheep! At times I found myself deciding there were better things to do than answer the shepherd’s call to guidance and safety, to purpose and mission.

The message was powerful! I often think of myself trying hard not to be that stubborn sheep! I remember the sacrifice of the Good Shepherd and I listen for his voice.

Prayer for Peace

Tender Shepherd, be patient with us when we think we don’t need you. Call us again and remind us whose we are. Remind us of Christ’s mission of peace and of our part in the community fold.

Spiritual Practice: Voices of God

What is the voice of God saying to us? Do we hear the whispers of God’s longing for shalom, God’s dream of beauty and wholeness for all creation? Do we hear the “voice” of God calling to us in faces and eyes, in the sounds of suffering and joy, in scripture and sacred word, in tears and laughter, in silence and noise?

Spend a few moments reflecting on when and how God’s voice has spoken to you. When did you first feel called to follow Christ in the pursuit of peace and justice? How does that call to shalom continue to come to you through the many “voices” of God?

Peace Covenant

Today, God, I will listen for your voice and follow.