Scripture Reflection, April 26, 2026, Fourth Sunday of Easter

Acts of the Apostles 2:14a, 36-41 1 Peter 2:20b-25 John 10:1-10

Am I hearing voices?

That’s a question a person might ask themself in one of two situations. Either they are remembering a command they heard long ago from a parent or guardian, such as: “Look both ways before you cross the street” - or - they literally believe they hear someone calling out to them. In the case of today’s scripture passages, both of those conditions are true. We are hearing voices of people who spoke centuries ago; however, their message is also resounding in our ears today.

In the first and second readings, both of which feature the voice of Peter, he is preaching a direct message of repentance to both the people of his own era and to us. In fact, his message is for everyone past, present and future.

In John’s Gospel, Jesus presents us with his image as the Good Shepherd. He speaks of himself when he says: “…he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice.” For emphasis, Jesus uses the term: “Amen, amen I say to you….” This is a technique Jesus (and others throughout history) have used to draw attention to the importance of what is being said. “Amen” literally means: “So be it.”

And each of today’s readings calls for both repentance and for action. Once again, Peter’s message is for every age, when he says: “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Now, as in the past, there is lots of corruption…and the temptation to be drawn into that corruption is ever present.

So, the answer to my initial question is “Yes”. I am hearing voices. And the voices implore me to follow a three step process with every important decision that I make: Pray - Carefully discern - and Act accordingly. As Pope Leo, and many popes before him have proclaimed, this process (if done correctly) will automatically lead to a world of ever increasing peace and justice. If we desire lasting peace, we must work for social justice!

by: Bill Miller