I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me. – John 10:14
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows and loves you inside and out. You are one of His beloved sheep. He knows and calls you by your name: “the sheep hear his voice, as he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out” (John 10:3). This is your identity: a beloved son or daughter of God the Father, named and chosen by Him for all eternity.
Take a moment and imagine that, Jesus calling you by your name. It feels so personal, to hear someone call you by your name, let alone our Lord. For me, hearing Jesus say my name is comforting and consoling. He knows me, my name, even my deepest identity that goes beyond my given name. He knows and loves my inside “me.” The “me” no one else knows or has access to, even my spouse, children, and dearest friends cannot access this utterly private part of me. The “me” that is my soul.
Imagine this deep identity, this “you” that is your innermost soul. That “you” will be given a new name someday in heaven. Your truest identity. The pure, spotless, heavenly “you” will be given “a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it” (Revelation 2:17). This is God’s name for you. It will be your name and your name alone, as unique as your soul, and precious to God.
While we’re still on earth, we can keep our earthly name and Jesus will call us personally by that name. He knows us, and we know Him. The Holy Spirit of truth will strengthen this deep inner part of us with His gifts: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being” (Ephesians 3:16).
This week, listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd calling your name. What is He calling you to in your relationship with Him? How is He guiding you in your vocation? How is He strengthening the deepest part of you?
Jesus, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. Help me to hear and follow your voice always.
Readings for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
- Acts 4:8-12
- Psalm 118:8-29
- 1 Jn 3:1-2
- John 10: 11-18