FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER A
OUR GATE IS HIS OPEN HEART
JN 10: 1-10
MESSAGE
Passing through a very provincial area, I noticed something different in the houses of the community: their homes were not separated by cement fences or metal walls, but by living plants in neat rows that serve as marks of their property. So different it was from the urban landscape where high walls surround houses and at its entrance, huge gates with cctv cameras, secure locks and even sometimes, a guard house nearby. Gates reflect the fear, insecurity, and privacy of the owner of the property.
A sheep pen is also well-protected, even though only by rough scraps of wood. It often has a wooden gate through which the sheep enter and from which they go out. But this gate whether open or closed, is so constructed not so much to isolate the sheep but to welcome them and then to also to lead them out to pasture and grazing. The gate is a sign of welcome, safety, protection, and comfort.
The Lord Jesus describes himself as a gate even before he does so as a shepherd. By this, he desires to express his open heart, willing to receive all and bestow on all the overflowing love of the Father. Entering his heart, one feels the great joy of belonging with other sheep, with other believers, who find protection and safety in his embrace. This gate is never locked, never shut, never closed; it allows freedom to serve and love. It is always a welcome space for all who need nourishment of God.
This Easter we see the Risen Christ inviting us to unity with him and with the flock that follow him. He is the Gate of heaven and when we receive him in the Eucharist and the sacraments, he opens wide his arms to receive us, bless us and protect us.
REFLECT
As we continue to gaze on the Risen Christ, let us enter through him, into the family of the Father. Let us ask for the grace of the Holy Spirit to desire only the heart of Jesus as our resting place.
LET US CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR PEACE! RISEN CHRIST, HEAR US!
