This past Sunday in the Church year was the 4th Sunday of Easter, also traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday. This means that most of the lectionary readings for the day contain some shepherd type reference to God or Jesus. For example, this year’s readings included: Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd . . .), Revelation 5:11-14 (Worthy is the Lamb), and John 10 (I am the Good Shepherd).
I remembered this as Sunday morning began, having read a meditation to that point, and from years of preaching on the theme on the 4th Sunday of Easter. Then, as we attended church that morning with our son and daughter-in-law at Platt Park Church – Denver, the focal point of the worship space just happens to be a stained glass window of Jesus as the Good Shepherd.
I teach a college class, Introduction to Christianity, in which I point out the importance of art in conveying the Christian message over the years. This was especially significant in a largely illiterate world, as the arts could communicate the Gospel message to audiences who lacked the capacity to read. Art reinforces the spoken message. Art reaches senses other forms of proclamation do not.
The shepherd image of God is one Jesus willingly embraced. Like us he prayed the 23rd Psalm. He spoke of sheep and shepherds in his parables and teachings. His entry into the world was celebrated by shepherds. And he embodied the role with his followers.
Jesus understood that the image of a Good Shepherd is personal and intimate. It conveys care, protection and guidance. A shepherd leads the flock, provides for their wellbeing, knows each sheep; and, if necessary, rescues and restores them to the fold.
The sheep know the Good Shepherd’s voice. They trust their shepherd and find contentment and rest in his care.
I considered each of these things on Sunday morning, inspired by the visual that was so prominent in the room. I wondered how often worshippers over the years had taken to heart this non-spoken message even as they listened to the day’s spoken word. Indeed, art has been communicating a message in that sanctuary since the window was first installed.
The worship service on Sunday included the dedication of our granddaughter, which was part of why we were present. As promises were made and affirmed by her parents and the congregation, and a blessing was pronounced over sweet Cora and her parents; I thought of how parenting is a lot like good shepherding. It’s hands on, attentive and protective, yet also encouraging and coaxing. Good parenting, like good shepherding, provides a space for safe growth and exploration. It’s present and available ever ready to step in if needed; but allows for independent formation and discovery as a child grows and matures.
Jesus does all of that and more for we sheep. When we live our lives within proximity to him, we thrive. We can hear his voice. We know he cares. One day we might be the sheep in his arms, another day the one trailing behind. We have all we need. Our souls are restored. The oil of his anointed blessing overflows and runs down upon our life in ways words find difficult to explain.
It’s an image that continues to yield meaning, just as the Good Shepherd window does in the worship space. Just as the image of loving parents holding their infant girl did beneath it. This was the dominant message of the 4th Sunday of Easter for me. For which I am, and I hope you are, thankful.
© Daniel M. Cash 2025
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