Gospel of John, chapter 18:33

Today is the last Sunday in ordinary time, it marks the end of the Church’s liturgical year.

In today’s reading we meet a king with no earthly match. This king is a shepherd for us and, like the good shepherd, he does not push or herd the sheep from behind but walks ahead of them and leads them into fine pastures. This king seeks us out when we’re lost, empowers us when we’re helpless. And rescues us when we’re trapped.

The king who comes in judgment in today’s gospel (John 18:33B-37) comes into our lives, not with punishment and condemnation but with sympathy and reconciliation. Jesus comes to lift up sinners. He wills not the loss of any member of the flock, but only that each member recognizes him. Jesus says that He is to be recognized in all those in need. Judgment in His kingdom is to be levied according to whether we have recognized Him in our neighbors in need by feeding, clothing, housing, refreshing and consoling them. Thus Jesus insists: “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my brothers, you did it for me”

Remember that those who are condemned in today’s gospel, were cast out of the kingdom not just for what they failed to do but for what never occurred to them to do. We must, therefore, choose to do good and do it in the ways that Jesus tells us. The gospel reminds us that it is the little things that count. Feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, welcoming the stranger, healing and visiting the sick, giving shelter to the homeless and visiting those in prison.

It is the little steps that we take in all these areas that build up God’s kingdom. So, put one foot in front of the other and commit yourself to helping others. You are not just trying to reserve a place for yourself in God’s kingdom, you are leading others to it as well. You are following the lead of the good shepherd.

Fr. Hugh Duffy, Pastor