May 11, 2025
In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus offers one of the most comforting images in all of Scripture: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.” These words, brief as they are, contain a world of hope and assurance. Jesus speaks of a bond between Himself and His followers that is intimate, unbreakable, and eternal.
At the heart of this passage is a profound truth: we are known and loved by God. Not from a distance, not abstractly, but personally and attentively. “I know them,” Jesus says. The Good Shepherd is not a manager of anonymous sheep but a caretaker who knows each by name, who calls gently, and whose voice they recognize even amid the noise of the world.
This Sunday also happens to be Mother’s Day, and it’s beautifully fitting that we hear this Gospel on a day when we honor those who first taught us how to hear love. For many of us, a mother’s voice was the first we recognized—a voice that comforted us in fear, guided us in confusion, and rejoiced in our growth. Mothers—biological, adoptive, spiritual—model something of the Good Shepherd’s care. They love with a fierce and protective love. They call us to be our best selves, even when we’re stubborn. They walk with us through life’s valleys, offering guidance, warmth, and wisdom.
There’s a quiet strength in both the Good Shepherd and a faithful mother: never coercive, always present. Their strength lies not in loud commands but in the quiet authority of love. How many of us have followed the “voice” of a mother’s advice or intuition, years after we’ve left home? That gentle influence stays with us, shaping the kind of people we become. Jesus says of His sheep: “No one can take them out of my hand.” What a powerful promise—one that echoes the way a good mother clings to her child through every trial, every heartache, every joy.
But it’s also worth noting that sheep are not known for their intelligence or bravery. They are easily frightened and often wander. And yet Jesus doesn’t criticize us for that. Instead, He simply assures us: I know you. You’re mine. I will not let you go. The promise of the Good Shepherd is not that we’ll never stray, but that He will never stop seeking us.
To all mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and those who have played a maternal role in someone’s life: thank you. Thank you for being the voice of love, comfort, and wisdom. Thank you for reflecting the patience and strength of the Shepherd. On this Mother’s Day, we not only honor you, but we pray for you—that you may feel the love and appreciation you so often give away freely and without expecting anything in return.
Let us also remember those for whom this day is difficult: those who have lost mothers, those who long to be mothers, and those who have experienced brokenness in their family relationships. May the Lord, the Good Shepherd, draw close to each one with tender care.
And to all of us who strive to follow the Shepherd’s voice—may we tune our hearts to Him more each day. May we never grow deaf to His call. In a world of many voices, may we recognize the One who speaks peace, purpose, and eternal life.
Happy Mother’s Day—and may the Good Shepherd bless you and your families this Easter season.