Fourth Sunday of Easter (B)
John 10: 1-18
By Matthew W. Humphrey
Sheep are not sexy.
Many biblical commentators struggle with language for this most archetypal figure, oftentimes casting them in unfortunate ways. In a brief review of the 9 commentaries on the Gospel of John, which contains the reading this week, I counted no less than 6 which noted that sheep were “stupid,” “dumb,” or “dirty.” (And, equally surprising, all noted how the role of Shepherd in the ancient world was one of ill repute.) Perhaps that is correct, but if sheep are dumb it is in the same ways as you and I. Namely: they seek out their own self-preservation, reacting to circumstances and perceived threats, often making rash decision based on incomplete knowledge. Sheep lack depth perception, meaning they see shadows and pools of water as mysterious threats to be avoided. (I don’t know about you, but I often lack vision too.)
Radical Discipleship 