John 10 vv. 1-10 Jesus the Gate and the Good Shepherd

We spoke about the story from last week (see below) in which Jesus explained to the two people on the road to Emmaus the Old Testament references to himself. We had a brief overview of the Old Testament including how the prophet Ezekiel had spoken of false shepherds of Israel at that time and how God would bring a new shepherd who would care for his people.

Our reading today is about Jesus fulfilling that roll. Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees who were encouraging people to follow the rules but Jesus was encouraging them to follow the shepherd (himself). Jesus protects us from those who would try to destroy our relationship with him and God. He also guides us to live the way he wants us to live.

In summary, Christians aren't perfect - just forgiven. Jesus the Good Shepherd, came to give

forgiveness

love

guidance

This is eternal, but starts immediately we respond to him.

Luke 24 - Recognising Jesus on the Emmaus Road

Quentin Bell, "The Supper at Emmaus" (Berwick Church mural)

TFG's service this week was based on this theme. It included images of the reading with extracts on our new big screen, accompanied by music. Much of the service was summed up in the opening reflection's challenging first question 'Risen Lord Jesus, what is it that keeps us from recognising you?'

The talk looked more closely at the account of the Emmaus Road, reminding us that Jesus approached the 2 disciples on their journey, a journey which was actually taking them away from Jerusalem where the Resurrection had taken place that very day. They were going in the wrong direction, but Jesus was there with them. The 2 friends had lost all hope since their idea of the Messiah was very different from that Jesus showed them was actually in the Scriptures.

On reaching their destination they did finally respond to his presence and invited him to stay with them, so that 'he was known to them in the breaking of bread' – a reference back to the Last Supper a few days before. Surely this also reflects the experience of the first Christians as they continued to meet together to follow his command. Is it ours?

That very same hour, quickly, they rushed to tell the other disciples the good news of their meeting with Jesus - a reminder of how the Christian faith has always been passed on. Is this a challenge to us?

Judith Platt