Fourth Sunday of Easter

April 21, 2024 Fourth Sunday of Easter John 10:11-18 “I am the good shepherd and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for my sheep.” When we have experienced trauma and loss, we can feel much like the sheep who were left to the wolves. Trapped in despair or scattered and confused, we can easily lose faith in those whose job it was to protect and care for us, our ability to trust in others may be shaken, and we may begin to see ourselves as alone in the world. Christ reminds us that we are not abandoned and alone. We are His. He claims us as his own. He knows us. He does not leave us to be consumed by despair and confusion. He remains on guard, prepared to lay down His life for us, his own. Guard Over Me Jesus, I will arise; Jesus accompany me; Jesus, lock my heart into yours, And let my body and my soul Be commended to you. The Lord is crucified. May God guard and protect my senses So that misfortunes may not overcome me. In the name of God the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen!