Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Monday, 4th Week of Easter

April 27, 2026, John 10:11-18

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042726.cfm

What is Most Important!

The Lord, in His Providence, has entrusted us with someone to care for and nurture. Some of us are parents and spouses; others are teachers, priests, and employers. Jesus provides us with a model for caring for His loved ones: “I am the good Shepherd…who lays down his life for his sheep.” This means we can imitate His caring nature in our daily interactions, whether at home, at work, or in the community, inspiring us to act with love and attentiveness.

The good shepherd model encourages us to reflect on our relationships with those we care for. It’s easy to recognize moments when we’ve sacrificed for them. At times, our day can resemble the woman who lived in a shoe, overwhelmed by her many children and unsure what to do.

Life can be like that nursery rhyme, with uncertainty about our direction and numerous demands on our time. A helpful way to emulate Jesus rather than a hired hand is to be present and attentive to whoever or whatever is in front of us, whether it’s listening patiently to a family member or offering a kind word to a neighbor. Small acts of love and presence can make a big difference.

Please beware of the hired hand who enters our minds when we think about our to-do list. Each distraction adds to our burden, causing tension and stress to build up in our shoulders.

When life feels overwhelming, pause and focus on the Good Shepherd, asking, ‘Am I trusting Jesus to guide me?’ so He can gently lead you back to where He is at work within you. He will fill you with His heart, enabling you to love and be present with those you care for, strengthening your faith and confidence in His guidance.

Goodbye, hired hand. Goodbye, stress. Goodbye, lady who lives in a shoe. Welcome to the Kingdom of God, where every need will be met. A little prayer helps us feel hopeful and connected: “Oh, Jesus, I surrender myself to you. Take care of everything. He can, and he will.”

Love Your Neighbor!

Peace everyone.

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC www.bscchurch.com www.rosminians.com

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