The Gospel of the Fourth Sunday of Easter (John 10:1–10) presents to us the enduring image of Christ as the Good Shepherd, the depth of which could be understood only in contrast to the hired hand. In a world marked today by crises of care and failures of leadership—where institutions falter, conflicts intensify, and the vulnerable are often abandoned—understanding these images becomes not only revealing but deeply challenging.
First, the Good Shepherd leads from the front or walks among the flock by presence. In contrast, herdsmen drive their cattle from behind through fear. Much of today’s leadership resembles that of the herdsman—driving people with pressure, metrics, or fear, especially in times of crisis. Second, the Good Shepherd carries a staff, not a stick. The staff symbolizes care, guidance, and protection, and it is used to draw the sheep close, lift the fallen, and ward off danger. The stick, by contrast, represents coercion and domination. Finally, the Good Shepherd embodies intentional speaking and active listening: “I know my own, and my own know me… they listen to my voice.” This is not a distant or transactional relationship as in the case of herdsmen, but one built on deep familiarity and trust.
In a fractured world like today’s, we witness leaders who act as “hired hands”—driven by profit, power, or self-preservation—abandoning their people in moments of crisis. Whether in global conflicts, economic instability, or humanitarian neglect, the “wolves” of fear, injustice, and division scatter the flock, often because compliance is demanded rather than trust nurtured. Yet Jesus reveals a different kind of power: one rooted in humility, care, and self-sacrifice. His authority comforts rather than crushes. The Good Shepherd reminds us: true leadership is not an occupation—it is a vocation of love that gives life.
This Gospel, then, is not only about Christ—it is also about us. In our families, communities, and places of influence, we are called to embody this shepherding presence. To lead not by fear, but by love. To remain when it is difficult. To listen before speaking. To protect rather than exploit. Hence, let us ask ourselves:
1. In my own context, do I feel like a sheep led together or from the front with presence and courage, or do I find myself as cattle pushed from behind out of fear or convenience?
2. In my leadership and influence on others, what do I hold in my hands—a staff that guides, protects, and uplifts, or a stick that pressures, controls, and distances?
3. How actively do I listen and how intentionally do I speak to those entrusted to me—does my voice foster trust, healing, and genuine relationships?
Rev. Rashmi Fernando, SJ
I am a Jesuit priest and educator from the island nation of Sri Lanka, historically known as Serendib or Ceylon. I have been blessed to receive Jesuit formation and higher education across Asia, Europe, and America. Most recently, I earned my Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership in Education (Ed.D.) from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, USA, where my dissertation explored global citizenship through the lens of undergraduates’ study-abroad experiences. Deeply convinced of the power of positive narratives that education can create, I believe it holds the key to addressing the ‘care-crises’ that weigh upon humanity and our shared ‘common home,’ while also emancipating individuals and communities. In addition to serving as an online faculty member with Jesuit Worldwide Learning (JWL)—Jesuit Higher Education in the Margins— to students in Africa and the Middle East, I am currently assigned to Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Determined to make a distinctive, active, and intellectually grounded contribution through Jesuit higher education, I am deeply passionate about reading, writing, and teaching on global citizenship, interdisciplinary leadership, and justice and peacebuilding. In this spirit, I hold close the words of Helen Steiner Rice: “Life is a fabric, weave it with tender care; Upon the loom of life, your pattern is rare.” While I cherish the uniqueness that defines my own life and journey, I am equally committed and eager to recognizing, celebrating, and defending the uniqueness of others—believing that true beauty is revealed where there is unity in diversity, and diversity in unity.
Keep smiling—because God loves you always! I mean, ALWAYS!
