May 12, 2019 4th Sunday of Easter-C

Acts of the Apostles 13:14, 43-52

Psalm 100

Revelation 7:9, 14-17

John 10:27-30

When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and with violent abuse contradicted what Paul said.  Acts 13:45

For the Lamb who is in the center of the throne will shepherd them… Rev. 7:17

Lord, you are the source of all truth.  You entrusted your word to the sheep you led.  Your Apostle Paul was a faithful and committed instrument of yours in the young Christian community.  He gladly experienced abuse, stoning, riots and other suffering for the sake of your name.  He assured the people you would shepherd them to the living waters of Baptism.  May we have more shepherds today to lead your people to the font of your grace.  We remember especially today our mothers who were our first shepherds in life.  They protected us, taught us, provided for us and many of us learned from them how to live a life of faith in you.  Thank you so much for my mother who cooperated with you in the creation of life.  I pray for the mothers in my family who are still living.  I ask that they be blessed today and live in your peace.  I lift up new mothers that they may cherish the great gift of life that has been entrusted to them.  I also pray for the mothers who have died may they join you forever in paradise.   Amen.