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)
Beneath the porch in winter’s chill,
The temple stood so grand and still.
The Feast of Lights was shining bright,
Yet hearts were veiled in shadowed night.
The shepherd walked with love untold,
His words like whispers, strong yet bold.
“My sheep shall hear, they know my call,
No hand shall take them, none at all.”
The doubters came with hearts of stone,
Demanding truth to be made known.
"If you are Christ, then tell us clear!"
But faith was blind, though He stood near.
The shepherd spoke, His voice was light,
A beacon burning through the night.
"I and the Father—one are we,
In love, in power, eternally."
Yet stones were raised, rejection burned,
The truth denied, belief was spurned.
But still He calls, so soft and sweet,
His sheep will follow, hear, and meet.
No thief shall steal, no storm shall break,
The love He gives none shall forsake.
For in His hands, safe shall we be,
Held forever—eternally.
Lord Jesus, our Good Shepherd,
You walk among us, calling us by name. Help us to hear Your voice above the noise of the world, and to follow You with unwavering faith. You have promised that none shall snatch us from Your hand, that in You, we find eternal security. Teach us to trust in Your love, to rest in Your presence, and to walk in Your light.
In moments of doubt, strengthen our faith. When fear grips our hearts, remind us of Your promise. You and the Father are one—unchanging, almighty, and full of mercy. May Your truth dwell deep within us, guiding our steps, renewing our hearts, and filling us with peace.
We surrender ourselves to You, Lord, knowing that in Your embrace, we are safe forever.
Amen.
Pericope
II: The Book of Signs
FEAST OF THE DEDICATION
John 10:22-30
Gospel Acclamation
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.
Gospel | John 10:22-30
22 The feast of the Dedication was then taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. 23 And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. 26 But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. 27 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.”
Historical Context and Background:
John 10:22-30 takes place during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem. This festival commemorates the rededication of the Jewish temple after its desecration by Antiochus Epiphanes in 164 B.C.
Jesus is walking in Solomon’s Porch, a covered walkway in the temple, when Jewish leaders approach him and demand that he state plainly whether he is the Messiah.
This passage is part of a broader theme of conflict and controversy in Jesus’ ministry. The Jewish leaders are divided—some accuse Jesus of being demon-possessed, while others recognize his miraculous works. Jesus responds by affirming that his works testify to his identity, but he also highlights that only his true followers—his "sheep"—recognize his voice and receive eternal life. He then makes a profound statement: "I and the Father are one", which further escalates tensions with the religious authorities.
The historical backdrop of this passage is significant because Hanukkah symbolizes deliverance and restoration, themes that align with Jesus’ mission. His claim to unity with the Father challenges the Jewish leaders' expectations of the Messiah and intensifies their opposition to him. This moment sets the stage for further rejection and ultimately leads to attempts to stone him.
Learning Lessons:
John 10:22-30 offers profound lessons about faith, security, and our relationship with Jesus. Here are some key takeaways:
Jesus' Identity is Clear – The Jewish leaders demand that Jesus tell them plainly if He is the Messiah. However, Jesus points out that His works already testify to His identity. This teaches us that sometimes, the truth is evident, but people refuse to accept it.
The Importance of Listening to Jesus – Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” This reminds us that true believers recognize and follow Jesus. It challenges us to be attentive to His guidance in our lives.
Eternal Security in Christ – Jesus promises that His sheep will never perish and that no one can snatch them from His hand. This is a powerful assurance of salvation and God’s unwavering protection.
Unity Between Jesus and the Father – Jesus declares, “I and the Father are one.” This statement affirms His divine nature and unity with God, reinforcing the Christian belief in the Trinity.
Faith vs. Doubt – The Jewish leaders struggle to believe in Jesus despite witnessing His miracles. This highlights the difference between those who have faith and those who reject the truth.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
