Lines often imply restrictions. Text box is a word processing document that sets limits outside of which one can’t write. Parents set limits for children. Employees unsatisfied with contract negotiations set up picket lines. The Gospel gives us another type of line, the gate. We’re familiar with gated communities, gates for entry into the theatre or a sporting event. They serve both as a dividing line and entry. Gate today is used as a symbol for shepherd.

   Not all shepherds have always been good. Jesus as the Good Shepherd promises protection, accompaniment, and abundant life. Our continued Easter Season is all about life, and greater life. I guess we can all do with some enhanced life here on earth, as well as eternal life. It has to do with peace and harmony, fulfillment and contentment. The shepherd would often lie down as the gate to keep harm away and the sheep safe. That can make one vulnerable. Jesus, as gate, invites us to cross through to safety and protection.

   We, too, are to be gate and shepherd. Following the way of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, our lives are to be richer, generous, peaceful, faithful. We do that as parent, child, teen, God-parent, priest, community of the faithful. Baptism is the gate through which we and these children must pass. The Christ life is the good pasture. Living as a true Christian can make us the targets for disapproval and disappointment. Our Baptismal commitment calls us to bear full responsibility for what we have done and failed to do. That’s why we’re constantly called to repentance and renewal. We are to be leaders to up-hold the common good, not the status quo. Each of us is to contribute our own leadership to the pool of authority and not just to bellyache about the folks in charge. Christ is counting on us. He loves us. He gives us His Spirit to do things we never thought we could do. It does take effort, and the setting of priorities to reflect the call. Yet, we won’t find any greener pastures, any richer life. The Church community births all of this, and we are all part of it.

   How is Christ the gate to your salvation?

   How has your life become more abundant due to Christ’s suffering?

  May the Lord Jesus be our Shepherd, the One who guards and guides us. His voice speaks words of love. His life gives us encouragement. His Resurrection is our strength. We are bonded in the waters of Baptism.