The readings for this fourth Sunday of Easter are rich in their imagery, and at the center is the image of the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep.
The image of the good shepherd shows us how the risen Christ brings us to life. It is love – the shepherd’s willingness to lay down his life for the sheep out of love – that gives the shepherd authority.
Loved by Christ, we find the courage and strength to love each other in equally powerful ways.