Short Homily for Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter

Theme: My sheep listen to my voice — A Shepherd of Hope

🪕 A while ago, Fr Phuti Eleazar Moabelo  was invited to bless a kraal full of sheep in Limpopo. One curious sheep followed him as if he were its long-lost cousin. The farmer laughed and said, “Father Moabelo, maybe it hears the Shepherd’s voice in your sermons!” — Let’s hope it wasn’t just Fr Moabelo's cologne!

📖 (Acts 11:1–18; Psalm 42:2–3; 43:3–4; John 10:1–10)

In today's Gospel, Jesus says: “I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved.” The gate is not just an entrance — it’s a symbol of safety, of welcome, of direction. In Acts, Peter explains how the Gentiles, too, have received the Spirit — a reminder that no one is beyond God’s reach. The Psalm beautifully echoes a deep yearning: “My soul thirsts for God, the living God.” It’s this thirst that drives us toward the gate, toward the Shepherd.

✨ Eucharist

Here at the altar, the Good Shepherd feeds us with His very life. The Eucharist is our green pasture, our still water, our sign that we are never abandoned.

❓ Question for Reflection

Whose voice do I listen to the most? Is it the voice of fear, greed, or despair — or the voice of the Shepherd who calls me by name?

🧺 Daily Practical Application

Spend just 5 minutes today in stillness. Ask the Lord: “What are You saying to me today?” Then listen. You’ll be surprised what the Shepherd may whisper.

🛠️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

If you're struggling — be it financially, emotionally, or spiritually — remember: the Shepherd doesn’t shout from afar; He walks beside you. You are not alone. Seek help. Speak up. And trust the Shepherd.

🎉 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

  • Use this Holy Year to reconcile. 
  • Visit a sick relative. 
  • Go to Confession. 
  • Support a neighbour in need. 
  • Let this Jubilee be the year you reconnect with the Shepherd’s flock.

🌟 Inspiration

In a country where voices often confuse or mislead, be a listener of the true voice. South Africans have a saying: “You cannot listen to a drum from far and know what rhythm it's playing.” Draw close to Jesus.

💬 Inspirational Quote

"The Shepherd does not leave the ninety-nine to shame the lost one — He leaves them to save it."

🧭 Conclusion

Let us be people who walk with purpose, listen with attention, and love without borders — because we are led by the One who laid down His life for us.

🙏 Good Shepherd,

teach me to hear Your voice in the busyness of my life.
Help me to follow You with trust,
and to lead others to You by how I live.
Guide me today, protect my heart, and feed my soul.
Amen.

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