Fourth Sunday of Easter – Sister Shamani Mumpande
May 11, 2025
John 10:27-30
Easter is a celebration of Love’s triumph, Christ’s victory on the Cross, which restores, heals, and unites us. As believers, we are called to live in joy, not despair, for love makes us whole and binds us to God and one another. Love is not passive; it is an active, sacrificial commitment, as demonstrated by Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:28). St. Julie Billiart, founder of the Sisters of Notre Dame, echoed this when she said, “How good is the good God!”, a reminder that divine love is the source of our hope and joy.
Pope Francis, in his Bull of Indiction of the Ordinary Jubilee year 2025, (Spes non Confundit), defines hope as a longing for good things amid uncertainty. This hope is not mere emotion but a force that drives prayer, strengthens faith, and radiates love. As shepherds (leaders, caregivers, or missionaries), we must guide others to God’s pastures, not our own, imprinting hope on their lives through our actions. Every interaction, whether at work, home, or in passing, leaves a mark. Francoise Blin de Bourdon and St. Julie, emphasized this mission “Let us work for the happiness of others, and our own will follow.”
Love is reciprocal and unshakeable, as described in Song of Songs 8:6-7, it cannot be bought or extinguished. Christ promised that no one will snatch them from my hand, assures us of His unwavering love. Fake love does not exist; true love is steadfast, as 1 John 4:16 affirms: “Whoever remains in love remains in God.” A true shepherd gives without measure, just as Christ did. St. Julie urges us, “Be like the sunflower that follows every movement of the sun, and keep your eyes always turned towards our good God.”
To be disciples, we must carry Christ’s love ceaselessly, even when it demands sacrifice (Mark 14:36). Like Paul and Barnabas, we must preach hope tirelessly, not for acclaim but to draw others to faith. The Eucharist, the “source and summit” of Christian life, compels us to share this love beyond the Church walls. The Good Shepherd Sunday reminds us to listen to Christ’s voice, embrace diversity, and hold fast to eternal life.
In a world of distractions, we must not stray from our heavenly goal. As St. Julie said, “When we are in darkness, let us wait for light; let us not lose courage.” Let love ignite our hearts, renew our faith, and make us true stewards of hope. Francoise’s words resonate: “Let us go forward in faith, with confidence in God’s providence.” May we, as joyful and loving shepherds, lead others to the risen Christ, whose love never fails.
Happy Easter!
John 10:27-30
Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Meet Shamani Mumpande, SNDdeN
