Husband. Father. Anglican Priest.
Jesus says abide in me — not a dramatic command, just stay connected. The branch doesn't produce fruit by trying harder. It produces fruit by staying on the vine. Apart from him we can do nothing. But abide in him, and the fruit comes. And at the end of it all: our joy will be full.
In an age that hides dependence behind supply chains and packaged goods, Rogation Sunday does something quietly subversive: it takes us outside, sets us on our feet, and teaches us to ask — holding out empty hands to the Lord of heaven and earth.
On the night before the crucifixion, Jesus told his disciples: I am the way, the truth, and the life. Thomas asked for directions. Jesus gave him a person. The way is not a method or a map — it is Jesus himself. Wide open to anyone who comes through him.
May 1: Feast of Philip and James. Philip asked the question that drew the greatest Christological declaration in John’s Gospel. James left no recorded word at all. Both are honored as apostles. Both shapes of witness belong to the Church.
"I am the gate" — a claim to divine identity. One narrow gate, wide open to anyone who enters. The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. The Shepherd comes for abundant life. The gate was opened at a cost. Only the one who died to open it can say "I am the gate."
Good Shepherd Sunday invites us to behold Jesus as the loving, sacrificial Shepherd who knows us by name and lays down His life for the sheep. Exploring John 10, Psalm 23, Anglican liturgy, and the call to follow Him, this reflection offers encouragement for every believer this Easter season.