Illuminations on the Lectionary readings for May 8, 2022 (Easter 4C)

First Reading: Acts 9:36-43

Sunday’s Collect sets the scene for the day’s Lectionary readings with these words: “O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads.”

Adoration of the lamb from the Ghent Altarpiece (1432) by Jan van Eyck (c.1390-1441). Bode Museum, Germany. Click image to enlarge.)

Even in the midst of difficulty, we always have hope in God, who protects us, feeds us, washes away our tears and offers us life. In our first reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, we hear about the sudden death of Tabitha, also known as Dorcas in Greek. This disciple’s death must have hit the infant church hard, as this hard-working disciple was known for her works of charity and made clothes for the group. Then comes Peter, filled with the Spirit. He brings her back to life with a prayer and a command, just as Jesus had done with Lazarus and others.

Psalm: Psalm 23

The familiar comforting verses of the 23rd Psalm express our trust in God as a kindly, protecting shepherd, an image that Christians eagerly adopt for Jesus, the good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. Its words offer us confident hope even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Although it turns darker momentarily as we envision our joy at dining sumptuously at God’s table while our enemies must only stand by and watch, it ends as full of hope as it began, accompanied by God’s goodness and mercy as we reside with God forever.

Second Reading: Revelation 7:9-17

Since last week’s reading the Lectionary has skipped over a chapter filled with striking, frightening symbols and allegories. The mysterious seals have come open and the four fearful horses of the Apocalypse have appeared. Now we stand again among a vast crowd dressed in white, representing all nations, races and people; all united in worshiping the Lamb, Christ, our King. These are the ones who have come through the great ordeal, facing persecution for Jesus’ sake. Now they know joy with the Lamb, who has become their Shepherd, who gives them the water of life, protects them and wipes away their tears.

Gospel: John 10:22-30

Is Jesus the Messiah? In the verses of John’s Gospel just before this, Jesus has declared himself the Good Shepherd. Now the group of Pharisees that has been quizzing Jesus becomes insistent, demanding that he end the suspense and tell them plainly if this is his claim. Jesus tells them not to ask for his words but to look at his works, the things that he has done in the name of God, his Father. His followers – his sheep – follow him willingly, he says; and through their faith they will gain eternal life.