My sheep hear my voice;
I know them,
and they follow me.
I give them eternal life,
and they shall never perish.
No one can take them
out of my hand.
(John 10:27-28)
My Shepherd calls—I hear His sound,
A voice so gentle, yet so profound.
Through valleys deep, o'er mountains steep,
His words my soul will always keep.
No thief can steal, no storm can shake,
The love He gives none can forsake.
His hand is strong, His promise true,
Through darkest night, He leads me through.
In Him I rest, in Him I stay,
No fear nor doubt shall turn away.
For He and Father walk as one,
Eternal hope through Christ, the Son.
Lord Jesus, my Shepherd and Guide, I hear Your voice calling me in love. You know me by name, and in Your presence, I find peace.
Hold me close, O Lord, for in Your hands, I am secure. No power on earth, no force unseen, can steal me away from Your embrace.
You and the Father are one— Your love is eternal, Your promises true. Help me to trust, help me to follow, That I may walk in Your light forever.
Amen.
Historical Context
John 10:27-30 is part of Jesus' discourse on being the Good Shepherd. Historically, this passage is set within the broader context of Jesus' ministry in first-century Judea, where He often spoke in metaphors familiar to His audience.
Shepherding was a common occupation, and the imagery of sheep and shepherds was deeply embedded in Jewish tradition, often symbolizing leadership and divine care.
At the time, Jesus was addressing Jewish leaders who were skeptical of His claims. The passage occurs during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem, a festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple after its desecration by foreign rulers.
The Feast of the Dedication of the Temple, known as “Hanukkah” or Festival of Lights, is an eight-day winter festival that celebrates the re-blessing of the Temple and its altar after the Seleucid King Antiochus Epiphanes profaned them with pagan sacrifices during the time of the Maccabees.
It is said that when the Jews entered the Temple to re-dedicate it to the sole worship of God, they found only one jug of olive oil that remained sealed and uncontaminated by the pagan Seleucids. This oil was used to light the menorah, the Temple’s candelabrum that remained lighted for eight days. This gave ample time to consecrate more oil for use at the Temple.
This setting is significant because it highlights themes of spiritual authority and divine protection, which Jesus emphasizes by declaring that His followers—His "sheep"—recognize His voice and are secure in His care.
The phrase "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30) was particularly controversial, as it was understood by His audience as a claim to divinity, leading to strong opposition from religious leaders. This passage underscores Jesus' role as the Messianic Shepherd, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about God's care for His people.
Prayer is your lifeline to God. Spend enough time in prayer and reading of Scriptures. This is the way you will hear God’s voice when He calls. It is important to set aside time for prayer every day.
Learning Lessons:
John 10:27-30 teaches profound lessons about faith, security, and our relationship with Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Here are some key takeaways:
Recognizing His Voice – Jesus says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." This highlights the importance of listening to God and discerning His guidance in our lives. It encourages believers to develop a close relationship with Him through prayer and scripture.
Eternal Security – Jesus assures His followers that "no one will snatch them out of my hand." This speaks to the unshakable security of those who trust in Him. It reminds us that God's love and protection are unwavering, even in difficult times.
Unity with the Father – Jesus declares, "I and the Father are one." This emphasizes His divine nature and unity with God, reinforcing the belief that following Jesus means being connected to the ultimate source of life and truth.
Faith in Action – Listening to Jesus is not enough; we must follow Him. This passage encourages believers to actively live out their faith, making choices that align with His teachings.
Trust and Obedience – Just as sheep trust their shepherd, we are called to trust Jesus completely. This means surrendering our fears and doubts, knowing that He leads us toward eternal life.
Pericope:
II: The Book of Signs
FEAST OF THE DEDICATION
John 10:27-30
Gospel Acclamation
I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.
Gospel | John 10:27-30
27 Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
