Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter April 18, 2005 Scripture: Acts: 11: 1-18; John 10: 11-18 Reflection: In this scripture reading from Acts, we are reminded that God’s message is for all of us. Our faith will enable us to accept dreams and visions we don’t understand. We need to be aware that we should never question God! Our reliance on the Holy Spirit will direct us in our quest for answers. God gives the Holy Spirit not just to us, but to all who seek this gift of faith and life. In this gospel from John, we read that the shepherd has other sheep that are not in the sheep pen. Our shepherd will seek them and bring them together so that there may be one flock and one shepherd. In both of the readings for today we are reminded again that God is bringing us into one fold - those who follow him and those who still need to hear his voice. This shepherd who is willing to give up life for the sheep will eventually gather us into one pasture where we will enter the gate of everlasting life. Let us never run away as the hired workers did when they saw the wolf coming. Rather, let us be like the caring shepherd who stays and tends the flock. We need to invite those who are lost in our midst and provide a sense of belonging, which allows for fullness of life. Suggested Action: Today, be the good shepherd and help someone experience a feeling of belonging in the fold and sharing in the life with Christ, the Shepherd. Sr. Ann McLaughlin, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania