IV Sunday of Easter - Gospel reading: John 10: 1-10

IV Sunday of Easter - A (May 11, 2014)

Gospel reading: John 10: 1-10

      The Gospel reading from last Sunday, the Third Sunday of Easter was the story of the two disciples meeting Christ on the road to Emmaus. It has long been my favorite Gospel reading.  This week, the Gospel reading contains my favorite biblical saying, "I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly" (John 10: 10).

        In a recent funeral program I found a quote by the poet Ralph Waldo Emerson that helps bring it in to focus, "It is not the length of life, but the depth of life." Life, it's not that we have it; God takes care of that part.  Rather, it's that we live it. 

      We all have life, how is it that we can have it more abundantly? As I was on my return flight here after my father's funeral, I sat in the first row of economy class. The first class section, luxury was just over an arm's length away. In full view, I could see passengers in first class with more room and sipping drinks. Waiting for the green light at almost any major intersection in town you can see poverty and destitution just an arm's length away as more and more poor and homeless stand there waiting for a handout. Abundance of life is not something we can reach out and obtain. We must first reach deep inside us and hold fast to our faith and then with arms outstretched and hands open, share it with others, both with those who appear to have it all and those in obviously destitute situations. 

       I always remember what a recent Tulane graduate said after making several of our mission trips to Honduras: "it really struck me how people could be so happy even though they have so little." I've known many children that have it all, but still long for something else. After the novelty of the latest toy wears off, a child longs for the attention and love of a father and mother. Yes, material things can stimulate us, but sustaining us is another matter.

        Dominican theologian, Padre Gustavo Gutierrez speaks about how suffering is not the same as sadness. That even in the direst situations of poverty, especially where he served in his native Peru, joy can be found. Even in the midst of death, or people dying slowly from poverty and disease, the God of life can be encountered and celebrated. Even in the midst of material wealth and living large, comfortable lives, people are dying a slow spiritual death. Why?  How?  Joy and abundance can be found and lived when we know and trust the One who gives life and we are grateful for the gift …. and the giver.