SimpliSafe, ADT, Ring, and Arlo are among the security systems used by people to keep themselves and their homes and property secure from thieves, robbers, and intruders.

 

We live at a time when robbery, porch piracy, car theft, home invasions, and random acts of violence have made people safety conscious. It is common to see security cameras and intruder alarms installed on private homes and businesses.

 

In this Sunday’s Gospel (John 10:1-10), Jesus speaks about security and theft. He describes himself as a shepherd who knows and watches over his sheep. He also speaks of himself as a gate that allows only owners of the sheep to enter and exit the common sheepfold.

 

The animals within that sheepfold can recognize the voice of their shepherd and listen only to him.

 

When the sheep hear voices that they do not recognize they do not follow these voices. They realize that they may be in danger for there are thieves and robbers who come “only to steal and slaughter and destroy.” We might say these sheep have a voice activated security system.

 

Today, the flock of the Lord is also threatened by “strangers” whose words can lead us away from following the voice of the Good Shepherd.

 

There are voices who preach a version of the Gospel that promises worldly success and ignores the words of Jesus about the danger of wealth and care for the poor.

 

There are voices who rarely speak of sin, repentance, suffering, or the cross. They speak only of positive things and self-improvement.

 

There are voices that lead people in enthusiastic praise and worship that seem more like self-focused entertainment rather than a challenge to spiritual growth.

 

There are voices in today’s secular and agnostic society that deny the existence of God and portray Jesus as just another good person among many who have walked this earth.

 

In order not to be led astray by these “strange” voices, we need to know and recognize the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

 

We learn to recognize his voice by being attentive to his words as he speaks to us through the scriptures, through his Church, and in moments of private prayer.

 

We learn to listen to his voice when we are attentive to the words of holy men and women who are striving to live as faithful Christians.

 

We learn to listen to his voice by setting aside time each day to slow our racing minds, and to focus on the Lord.

 

If we are to faithfully follow our Good Shepherd, we need to be alert to voices that may lead us astray. We need a spiritual security system that warns us of dangerous voices!

 

© 2026 Rev. Thomas Iwanowski

 

MAY THE RISEN LORD BLESS YOU DURING THIS EASTER SEASON!