The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. — Psalm 23:1

Mass readings: Acts 2:14,36-41 / 1 Peter 2:20-25 / John 10:1-10 

Farmer and Shepherd 

Today’s the Fourth Sunday of Easter but it’s also the feast of St. Isidore the Farmer (1070-1130) whose title offers the reminder that saints arise from every walk of life. Isidore’s parents were tenant farmers and he eventually went to work for a wealthy land owner in Madrid where he established a reputation for his prayerfulness and generosity to the poor. 

As a farmer, Isidore must have had some experience with livestock and would know the behaviors of sheep. That brings us to today’s Gospel. Often it’s considered an insult to be called “a sheep” but, in today’s Gospel of the Good Shepherd, we’re reminded that all of us, like Isidore’s flock, have the opportunity to hear and follow the voice of the one who cares for us. 

Prayer: Beloved Shepherd, help me listen for Your voice.